Zygmunt Przybyl

Zygmunt Przybyl, age 58 of Detroit, died Sunday, August 17, 2014 at Detroit Receiving Hospital. He was born May 1, 1956 in Poland, son of the late Jan and the late Jadwiga (nee: Brodzinski) Przybyl. Just nine more days…and Zygmunt would have been sharing an anniversary dinner with his bride of 36 years, Barbara. After over three years of courting and wooing, it was on August 26, 1978, amidst the grandeur of Our Lady Queen of Apostles Catholic Church in Hamtramck, that these two lovebirds promised themselves in marriage and began their journey together as husband & wife. Soon, their lives were blessed with the addition of children, and their venture took on even more heartfelt meaning. Know what I mean?For most of his working life, Zygmunt's specialty and expertise was centered around the unique field of Marine Pollution Control. Serving as an emergency responder to environmental crises of many kinds, some of his most noted work involved the newsworthy oil spills of the Exxon Valdez in Alaska, and the more recent BP disaster in the Gulf of Mexico,…though his resume and accomplishments span a much greater scope than merely these two examples. He spent many years working for somebody else, until he and a buddy, Mike Popa, decided to start their own firm,…aptly named, "New Horizons Response Services." His work could be grueling at times, but it was also responsible for giving him the opportunity to travel and see some interesting parts of the world,…namely all the 50 states, Hong Kong, Puerto Rico, and so many more. Know what I mean?When he wasn't working, the lion share of Zygmunt's pastimes, like many men's, were of the sporting nature. For an exciting bit of indoor pleasure, you'd often find him at the dart board honing his skills. Not only did he enjoy tossing darts, he was quite adept and exceptionally talented in doing so. So much so that he was an active participant in many leagues and tournaments that spanned the local, state and national scenes around the country. Know what I mean? And if he wasn't competing with darts, there were also the many fun and rousing games around the card table enjoying a little Pinochle action. There were always great times to be had in slingin' the cards,…and perhaps a little trash as well,…all of it friendly, of course. Know what I mean? As for the outdoorsy options, some of his favorites included many of the popular, usual suspects of the Mitten State. Whether it was hitting the backwoods in search of a little venison,…casting a line at one of his favorite fishing holes,…exercising his firearms expertise with a little target shooting,…or simply navigating the many waters of this Great Lakes state on the boat, Zygmunt knew how to have a good time and how to bring a little balance into life while enjoying the beauty of Michigan. Know what I mean?He also enjoyed the many family times and memories created while camping up in Grayling, Michigan. And it wasn't the 5th wheel type of camping either. We're talking pitchin' tents, baby. Getting' back to nature and bonding around a roaring campfire. Now THOSE are memories. Know what I mean? Another of the family moments that meant the world to his kids were the Sunday's on the beach at Russian Farms in Howell. Family times were always special,…but add a little water to the mix, and now it's a party! And it's just one of many remembrances that will keep him close to those he loved,…and who loved him. He leaves behind much to treasure, much to grow on, and will be missed immensely. And if you haven't picked up on a common thread throughout this tribute, one of Zygmunt's most unique and memorable traits will forever be his utterances of..."Know what I mean?" Gone far too soon from our presence, may he now rest in peace. Zygmunt was the beloved husband of Barbara, and dearest father of Paul and Mary. Loving brother of Marianne (Ronnie) Gorski, Stella (Joe) Stea, Tadeusz (Helena) Przybyl, and the late Ryszard Przybyl. He is also survived by several loving nieces, nephews, great nieces & nephews, and extended family members in Poland. Visitation for Zygmunt will take place on Wednesday, August 20th from 5-9pm and Thursday from 2-9pm, with an evening Rosary Service on Thursday, at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Rd) in Warren. He will lie in state on Friday at Our Lady Queen of Apostles Catholic Church in Hamtramck from 9:30am until time of the Funeral Mass at 10:00am. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, Michigan.Memorial donations are welcomed to the family.Please share memories of Zygmunt at his memory book.