Richard J. Zavodsky of New Boston, Michigan, passed away on Monday, January 8, 2018. Richard was born December 21 (forever 39 years old) in Detroit, Michigan. He was the son of John Zavodsky and Mary (Yakubesan) Zavodsky.
Richard helped start the Central Michigan University (CMU) Chippewa Athletic Club. He was also an active member of CMU’s 1100 club; Vice President of St Stephen’s Parish Council. He served as Vice President and Treasurer of the Huron Board of Education serving for 20 years, Board member for Regional Educational Service Agency; Board member of the Land Development Finance Authority for Wayne County; Member State Education Committee; Athletic Director-St Stephens Church; Bible study facilitator; St Stephen’s lector; Lifetime member of the Yankee Air Force Museum and the Wright Patterson Air Force Museum, and marketing and PR director for Dr. Z’s Racing. He was founder and president of Ford Motorsports Enthusiasts and Ford-Women in Racing. Because of his passion to learn and achieve, he worked many jobs including A&P, Northwest Airlines and Ford Motor Company which helped propel him through his schooling years ending with a Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Human/Organizational Systems and also a certified professional coach.
He was an eloquent writer and speaker writing several articles that were published. He believed in empowering people to excel. He was strong in his belief for God and passionate about his work, family, Central Michigan University and Ford Motor Company. He was very proud of his low absentee rates for his work zone in the Ford plants, bringing many innovative ideas to the products, actively participated in many vehicle launches within Ford and had a deep passion for all Ford and Lincoln brand products!
To cherish his memory he leaves his wife; Audrey Zavodsky, two children; Richard (Kimberly) Zavodsky and Jason (Christy) Zavodsky, three siblings; Mary Ann Kischewski, Shirley Polk and Steve Zavodsky, three grandchildren; Cody, Parker and Ivana and one great grandchild; Colton.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents.
Friends may gather from 5:00pm to 8:00pm on, Thursday, January 11, 2018 and on Friday, January 12, 2018, from 1:00pm to 8:00pm, with a Rosary at 5:00pm, at Crane Funeral Home, 36885 Goddard Rd. Romulus, Michigan 48174, (734) 941-9200. Mass will be held at St. Stephen Catholic Church in New Boston on Saturday, January 13, 2018 at 11:00am, with a visitation at 10:00am, with Father John Hedges officiating. Interment will take place at Michigan Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may contribute to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or The Capuchins in Detroit
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