Matthew W. Zabek's Obituary
Matthew W. Zabek, of Alachua, FL, passed away peacefully in his sleep on November 23, 2024. He was born on March 11, 1930, in Cohoes, New York, to Stanley and Mildred Zabek, and was the last surviving of their five children.
A proud Army veteran, Matthew served two tours of duty in South Korea during the Korean Conflict. After his honorable discharge, he married the love of his life, Eleanor Galarneau, in May 1955.
Matthew had a long and successful career as a manufacturing engineer with General Electric, working in various roles within the Power Group. In 1980, he and his family relocated to Gainesville when GE opened its battery group facility on U.S. Highway 441.
An avid golfer and devoted Florida Gators fan, Matthew enjoyed cheering on all Gators sports—Go Gators!
He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 70 years, Eleanor; daughter, Judith (Steve) Trynosky; son, Michael Zabek; grandson, Liam (Olivia) Zabek; and great-grandchildren, Arabella and August.
Matthew was a longtime member of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Gainesville. He will be laid to rest in the Veterans Shrine at St. Madeleine Catholic Church in High Springs, FL, at a future date.
Service details will be shared on this site as they become available.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Haven Hospice of Gainesville, FL, https://havenhospice.com/ in gratitude for their compassionate care.
What’s your fondest memory of Matthew?
What’s a lesson you learned from Matthew?
Share a story where Matthew's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Matthew you’ll never forget.
How did Matthew make you smile?