Joseph J. Zaluski's Obituary
Joseph J. Zaluski, 72, passed away on February 16, 2025, peacefully at home. He was born on July 28, 1952, in Jersey City, New Jersey to Joseph W. Zaluski and Mary C. (Just) Zaluski. He was raised in Secaucus, New Jersey along with his surviving sisters Carol (Ed) Barnum and Susan Impreveduto. He is also survived by his wife of 45 years, Sally, his daughter Katelin (Tim Freshour) and his son Zachary (Molly) and their daughters Alice and Bridget. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews, extended family members and many friends.
Joe graduated from the University of Dayton, M.Ed., beginning his career as a 6th grade teacher and soccer coach at The Miami Valley School in Dayton, Ohio, and advancing to an administrative position as the Lower School Head a few years later. He was the Head of Lower School and Assistant Head of School at Sewickley Academy in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, and the Head of School at Gulf Stream School, Gulf Stream, Florida, retiring in 2019. He was honored to sit on 6 Boards at various schools.
A dedicated educator for 43 years, Joe enjoyed guiding and advising teachers, students and their parents. He was an unwavering advocate for the personal and professional growth of the faculty. An inspiration to everyone to achieve their full potential, he was always available to listen and respected opinions as an administrator and a friend. Known as "Mr. Z" to students, he encouraged a kind and positive environment for learning and growth for children and that setting an example with compassion for others was a stepping
stone for building confidence.
Whether starting his day with a big smile and a handshake as he welcomed students, reading with a class of 1st graders in his office, bringing wisdom and commitment to meetings, running laps with his soccer team, or wearing a costume in the Halloween parade, Joe expressed his love of life and learning with students with joy!
There was always time for his family and playing with his young granddaughters was very special to Joe. He looked forward to baking, biking, golfing and attending sporting events, whether to participate, watch his family play school sports or to enjoy college and professional teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Columbus Crew. He traveled to five countries in Europe, Russia, and South Africa where he visited schools. Living life to its fullest included simply reading a book at the beach!
Joe endured a rare heart disease and his courage was supported by his family, hospice and many friends along the way during his illness. So many heartfelt wishes, healing prayers and an abundance of love were appreciated during that time and his family is grateful for this offering of strength for them. Joe will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A family celebration of his life will be held this summer in New Jersey.
Consider a donation in Joe's memory to Glen Helen's Outdoor Education Center in Yellow Springs, Ohio, at Glenhelen.org.
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