Alexander Barney Zurek

Alexander Barney Zurek, 81, passed away after a long illness on Wednesday, April 20, 2016 in St. Elizabeth Medical Center. Al was born in New York Mills on January 13, 1935, a son of the late Barney and Mildred (Markowski) Zurek. He was educated in local schools; a graduate of New York Mills High School and continued his eduation at MVCC. Al served in the US Air Force as a jet mechanic in the late 1950's and then reenlisted in the US Army for two years. Al loved his Air Force years and always enjoyed the annual reunion with his unit in Myrtle Beach. He was married at one time to the former Diane (Conte) Leavitt and from that union had his two beloved daughters. Later he was joined in marriage to the former Ruth Warford and the couple have a beloved son. A longtime Teamster Truck Driver, Al worked for Fanelli's Express for over thirty-four years; following retirement, he drove a delivery truck for Northern Safety. Al was an avid golfer and loved sharing this activity with his son, David. He also enjoyed traveling to Florida several times a year on family vacations. For over twenty years, Al, along with his son David, studied Tae Kwon Do at Scalise Tae Kwon Do. Al became very active in all facets of the organization, studying and teaching martial arts to many young people as well as adults. Always referred to as "Mr. Z", Al created many long lasting friendships and one of his proudest moments in life was receiving his black belt. Al is survived by his wife, Ruth; his daughter and son-in-law, Terry and Tony DeMara of Newark Valley; son, David Zurek, with whom he resided, of Whitesboro; seven grandchildren; five great grandchildren; three brothers, Barney Zurek, Steve Zurek, and Bart Zurek; four sisters, Chris McDaniels, Melody Giacona, Cindy and Mike Boehlert, and Eve Zurek; and also many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his beloved daughter, Debbie Strain; and two brothers, Louis "Snookie" and Ronnie Zurek. The celebration of Al's life with military honors will be held on Sunday at 5 p.m. at The Matt Funeral Home. Private interment will be in St's Stanislaus & Casmir Cemetery. Relatives and friends may call on Sunday from 3 to 5 p.m. at The Matt Funeral Home, 700 Rutger Street, at Mohawk Street, Utica. For directions to the funeral home, click the link above.

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