Donald Zak, Jr.

On November 22, 2024, Donald “Rick” Zak Jr., 64, peacefully passed away. Rick lived in Spring Hill, FL in a home that he worked very hard to provide for his family.  

Rick was born at Macdill Air Force Base and was a proud Tampa native. He decided to continue his education to become a heating and air conditioning technician. This was a job that he would always say was a hard one, but said he wouldn't change a thing. He worked as a technician for 35 years with 19 of those being at Busch Gardens where he would go on to meet many friends. One of those friends led him to know Christ and introduced him to his loving wife.   

Rick’s hobbies consisted of playing golf with his sons, going to the movies with his youngest daughter and spending quality time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Rick previously owned a motorcycle that he loved to ride leading him to earn the name “motorcycle grandpa” by some of his grandchildren. Rick made it a point to befriend his kid’s friends and was a surrogate father to many. 

Rick was preceded in death by his parents Donald Sr. and Teresita Zak. He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Christine Zak who Rick would lovingly call his “queen” (LOL). He is survived by his younger siblings Dan Zak of Largo and Sheree Thrash of Spring Hill as well as by 4 children Richard Zak of Norfolk, VA (Sarah), Kristyn Zak of Tampa, Daniele Hornsby of Spring Hill (Daniel) and Andrew Zak of Spring Hill (Heather). The joy of Rick’s life were his 6 grandchildren Dominick Zak, Martin Zak, Emma Gielow, Aurora Zak, Lucy Zak and Paislee Zak. He had a special place in his heart for his brother-in-law and personal assistant Alan Rizzo. Rick had special relationships with many other family members including aunts, nieces and nephews. 

The family will be receiving people on Tuesday November 26, 2024, from 10:00 am – 11:00 am with a service to follow at 11:00. Both will be held at Downing Funeral Home 1214 Wendy Ct., Spring Hill, FL 34607. A reception will follow at the Zak family home: 8356 Gallup Rd. 

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