Zbigniew David Mikulec

Born on June 16, 1949, in Elbląg, Poland, and raised in Łódź, Zbigniew grew up in post-war Poland in circumstances that demanded toughness, resilience, and resourcefulness — qualities that would define him for the rest of his life. In 1966, he immigrated to the United States with his mother in search of opportunity and a better future. He later served in the United States Army as a Sergeant stationed in South Korea during the Vietnam War.

Zbigniew was an electronic engineer by trade and a fixer by nature. If something was broken, he could repair it — often better than before. From 1982 to 1998, he owned and operated A1 Video, where his technical skill was matched only by his personality. He was savvy, social, quick-witted, and rarely at a loss for words. He built his home in Farmington, Connecticut, alongside family and friends — a project that reflected both his craftsmanship and the strong circle he kept around him.

To know Zbigniew was to experience him. Outgoing, fully colorful, and deeply engaging, he was often the life of the party, known for his bright smile, direct candor, and razor-sharp delivery. He loved to dance, ski, socialize, and stay connected — whether in person or through his unmistakable Facebook presence.

Beneath the bold exterior was a quieter generosity. He would help anyone fix what was broken, often without hesitation. In one defining moment of selflessness, he gave up his place in line for a heart transplant so that a 14-year-old boy could receive the life-saving surgery — a powerful reflection of the compassion that guided him in ways not always visible at first glance.

He took great pride in the accomplishments of his children — in their education, careers, and the lives they built. He loved family vacations and holidays and found particular joy skiing with his children. He valued having friends and family gathered around him and was immensely proud of his grandchildren. Above all, he taught those around him to be yourself, no matter the situation — advice he lived unapologetically.

Zbigniew was predeceased by his beloved wife of 37 years, Barbara (Napierkowski) Mikulec; his father, Franciszek Mikulec; his mother, Julia Mikulec; and his sister, Victoria Pinda.

He is survived by his son, Michael Mikulec and his wife Baoyi Huang of Savannah GA; his daughter, Jennifer Wheelock and her husband Nicholas Wheelock of Tolland CT; and his grandchildren, Jackson Wheelock, Chase Wheelock, and Noah Mikulec, as well as his sister Bronia Soltysik and many nieces, nephews and friends.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, March 1, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at New Britain Memorial & Donald D. Sagarino Funeral Home, 444 Farmington Avenue, New Britain, CT. A funeral Mass will take place on Monday, March 2, at 9:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church in New Britain, followed by burial at Sacred Heart Cemetery. A reception will follow at New Britain Memorial's Event Center.