Daniel E. Zukie's Obituary
Daniel Edward Zukie, was born July 21,1951, to the late Daniel and Mary Elizabeth Zukie (nee Davis). Daniel passed on March 30, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer. Beloved husband of 43 years to Deborah Zukie (nee Reich). Cherished brother of Kate (Ray) Jenne, Sue (Jack) Stillman, Debbie Conway and Bill (Bobbi) Zukie. Dan was a loving uncle to 11 nieces/nephews. 16 great nieces/nephews many of whom he shared his love of fishing with as well as friend to many.
Dan was founder and president of Homestead Construction which ultimately became Zukie Builders, Inc. He spent a lifetime working with the physically disabled, helping to access their needs then designing/constructing an environment utilizing elevators, lifts and ramps to support those needs in both commercial and residential applications. Dan worked closely with the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation, making home and bathroom modifications for the disabled. After high school Dan worked for “Red” Matthei, owner of Truckin Vantastiks, designing and building van conversions to fit the individual and unique needs of each disabled customer. While Dan earned a Bachelor of Business degree from Cleveland State University, he attributed his “business sense” working for “Red”.
Dan cared deeply for his clients taking many of them to lunch, camping, fishing and to ballgames. He was an avid boater and with his wife shared many boat outings and fishing excursions with family and friends. He made a profound impact on the lives of many with his generosity and kindness.
Daniel was an outstanding volunteer for Project Healing Waters (a Veteran’s all-encompassing fly-fishing program), healing those who serve. He was instrumental in the development of their Rocky River Chapter where he operated as their program lead and recently remained active as their assistant program lead. Daniel created the Battle of Steelhead Alley (BOSA) Tournament, a friendly competition between Ohio Healing Water’s chapters.
Additionally, Dan combined his love of the outdoors with his passions for photography and he also did both personal and professional videography.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Dan’s memory to his favorite organization:
Project Healing Water Fly Fishing (PHWFF); Payable to the Rocky River Program for Veteran’s outings; Mail to P.O. Box 695, Laplata, Md 20646
Memorial visitation will be held on Monday April 10, 2023, from 4pm -7pm. A Celebration of Life to be held at later date.
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