Zachary James Walderzak passed away at Metro Hospital in Wyoming MI on September 10, following a very long and courageous battle with brain cancer. He was surrounded by his adoring family.
Zach was born in Holland on May 8, 1990.
He will be dearly missed by his parents Jerry and Donna Walderzak, his sister Amy Walderzak Kayser, a niece Kathryn Kayser all of Holland, the love of his life Najma Malik of San Francisco, a brother Joseph Walderzak of Northville, MI, a special Aunt and Uncle Cindy and Roger Hughes of Saginaw MI, his constant companion and furry friend Iggy, as well as countless loyal friends who stood by him through this long journey.
Zach graduated from Black River Charter School in 2008. As a child, he was spirited and marched to his own drummer. He started first grade with his arm in a cast after performing tricks on the monkey bars while entertaining his brother. Zach was a kind and loving soul; he loved all animals and anything involving science and nature. He loved reading, movies, playing video games, moderating for Twitch artists, and listening to music – on vinyl and at concerts. His last live concert was on August 28 when he treated his dad and his friend to a King Crimson concert. He had an amazing night. He was an avid board game player too and was especially fond of Catan. Zach loved spending time with his family and did so as often as he was able. Family night always meant a home-cooked meal and a board game. He had a quick and irreverent wit and even on his darkest days he could make us smile.
Zach’s brain cancer was diagnosed at Christmas 2015, it was followed by many hospital stays due to a stroke, diabetes, osteoporosis, and a broken back all due to his brain cancer. He faced it all with courage and dignity and never wasted a moment feeling sorry for himself. His very short life was inspiring and he leaves a huge void. He will live on in our hearts forever.
Before his illness, Zach was employed by Plascore, Inc in Zeeland. His family would like to thank Fritz Huebner and Kate Tejeda as well as the Human Resources Department for their time, support, and kindness shown to Zach in 2016 and beyond.
We would also like to thank Dr. Batts and the team of wonderful nurses and technicians at the Cancer and Hematology Center in Holland for their great care, friendship, and compassion. Zach looked forward to seeing you all on each visit and loved chatting and joking and sharing stories.
We would also like to thank Dr. Peter Vance and team at South Washington Family Medicine in Holland for their care and support. We would not have come this far without you all.
Cremation has taken place per Zach’s wishes. There will be no service. A private celebration of life will take place at a later date.
In lieu of flowers or a donation, the family simply wishes for kindness – spread it around and teach your children to be kind. When you see a physically challenged person, know that in a heartbeat it could be you or a loved one. Kindness costs you nothing and means the world.
He was loved.
“This world was never meant for one as beautiful as you”
Arrangements are by Dykstra Funeral Homes-Downtown Chapel.
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