Ernest E Zaik

The son of Polish immigrants, he was born in Pittsfield, MA on November 2, 1926. He spent most of his life in Ashland, MA later retiring to Cape Cod where he and his wife, Cecile, enjoyed a cottage they had built in Eastham. Several years after his wife's death, he moved to Little River, SC to live with his youngest daughter, Mary.

Ernie was a World War II Air Force Veteran. Always a student at heart, he took advantage of the G.I. Bill after the War to advance his education. His goal was to make a difference in children's lives first by teaching, then as a High School Principal, finally ending his long career as Superintendent of Schools in Lawrence, MA.

History, current events, social equality, and education were lifelong passions for Ernie. He was always reading, very interested in the world around him, and constantly encouraged others to do the same. Rarely was a waiter or waitress spared a conversation about the importance of continuing their education. Even into his 90s, he was tutoring disadvantaged middle school children in reading three times a week.

Physical fitness was also a lifelong pursuit of Ernie's. He regularly worked out at the gym until Covid. Afterwards, he walked every day, even up to his final illness, to maintain his fitness.

Ernie will be greatly missed by all who knew him, experienced his curiosity and intellect, and enjoyed his kindness. He left an indelible impression on us all.

The family would like to acknowledge Kerstin Lanik who served as Ernie's caregiver in his last years. She was devoted to his well-being, shared his interests, faithfully walked with him, and was lovingly compassionate to the end. We could not have asked for more.

We would also like to thank the staff of River Park Assisted Living for all the support and kindness they gave our father. Your love for him will be a precious memory.

Survivors include his daughter Christine Kovago and her husband Gus of Shrewsbury, MA; son Ernest Zaik Jr. and his wife Kimberly of Phoenix, AZ; son Edward Zaik of Fountain Valley, CA; and daughter Mary Zaik and her wife Kris Hillenburg of Hendersonville, NC; two grandchildren, Rachel Bollig and her husband Doug of Chandler, AZ; and David Zaik of Chandler, AZ. His parents Frank and Bertha (Mlynarczyk) Zaik, his brother Edward, his sister Lucy (Zaik) Aldrich, and his wife Cecile (Hebert) Zaik preceded Ernie in death.

A memorial service and burial will be held at a later date in Pittsfield, MA.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Ernie's name to a charitable organization of your choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.leefhandcrematory.com for the Zaik family.