Justin Robert Zmijewski

He was born to Matthew and Connie Zmijewski on January 27, 1983 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The family moved down to Charlotte, North Carolina while he was in elementary school, and where Justin subsequently lived the majority of his life. After graduating from Queens University with a B.A. degree in Business Administration and Management, Justin enjoyed working hard and closing deals. He was a natural salesman.

Justin loved to travel and explore. While traveling in the Philippines, a country he loved deeply, he met his beautiful wife, Marilou Martinez. Together, they raised Audrey Mae, whom he loved and cared for as his own daughter. The family enjoyed time in the Philippines and Charlotte, and provided Justin with the happiest years of his life. He loved them immensely.

Justin loved spending time in the outdoors, often going for hikes in the mountains and trips to the beach to spend time in the ocean. He was a star swimmer in his youth, even breaking a North Carolina state record with his relay team. Eventually Justin found a love for mountain biking, which combined his love for the outdoors with a mix of fun, excitement, competition, physical and mental toughness. Justin’s true passion was his family and finding ways to make each and every family member feel special in a way only he could. He never missed a family birthday dinner or celebration, and you could count on a quirky but perfect present that made everyone smile and laugh. The heartfelt messages he wrote in his cards were the best; always reminding others how much they were loved and appreciated. Justin had a special fondness for his grandmother, whom he called “Mamaw”. His family credits his million-dollar smile to being “The Ballard Smile”, passed on from his Mamaw he loved so much.

Justin is survived by his parents, Matthew and Connie Zmijewski, his wife, Marilou Martinez, his daughter, Audrey Mae, his brother and sister-in-law, Bryan and Karynn Zmijewski, his sister, Laura (Zmijewski) Grant, his many nephews and niece, Parker, Spencer, Harrison, Oliver and Emerson, his father and mother-in-law and family, Danny and Leah Martinez and the entire Martinez family, and his Mamaw, Dixie Ballard.

Justin will be loved and missed immensely by his family. His passing has created a heartbreak that we can only hope the memories of his warm smile, quick wit, and humor will help ease over time. A memorial service is scheduled for 2 pm on Saturday, June 24, 2023, at McEwen Funeral Service – Pineville Chapel. All are welcome with a reception to follow at Laura’s house.