Walter Ziemniak

Ziemniak, Walter, A beloved husband, brother, uncle, friend and esteemed member of our community passed away on June 3, 2024, peacefully in the arms of his loving wife, Laurie. Born in Detroit, Michigan, Walter was one of three children. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Jane Ziemniak and his sister, Mary Ann Toporek. After attending Notre Dame High School, Walter graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance from the University of Detroit. He was President of his fraternity, Kappa XI Chapter. Walter married the love of his life, Laurie (Shaway) in 2001. Their relationship, which spanned over 39 years, was a testament to their deep love, mutual respect, devoted friendship and admiration for each other. Together they shared a rich and fulfilling life, surrounded by a close-knit circle of friends and family. After many entrepreneurial adventures, Walter purchased Bronco Printing Company in the mid 80’s. Many have joked that when he went into the printing business, he did not know how to turn on a copy machine. It didn’t take long for him to learn the business which he quickly excelled at. In 2005 Laurie joined Walter every day at the print shop and in Walt’s words, they were unstoppable. In December, 2023, he sold his thriving company and joined the ranks of retirement. Known for his kindness and infectious smile, Walter was a great friend to many, ready to offer a word of wisdom or a shoulder to lean on. Walter loved unconditionally and was the first to step up and help a friend in need. He always had a joke to share. He lived a life marked by integrity, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his family and friends. Knowing all too well, that you didn’t have to be blood to be family. Beyond his professional achievements, Walter was known for his warmth, humility and generosity. He was an active member of the American Polish Century Club and took great pride in his heritage. He served on the board of directors for over 18 years and played a pivotal role in the Annual Polish Festival every summer, an event he looked forward to and loved. Walter was a member of the John W. Smith Old Timer’s Club Charities, serving on the board for many years and ran several fundraisers to help support the Capuchin Soup Kitchen and the homeless in Detroit. He was also a member of the Alhambra, Sancho Caravan #261, a wonderful group of Catholic men and woman helping the developmentally disabled. For years he volunteered at St. Margaret of Scotland Parish when they hosted Mcrest for the week. Walter is survived by his wife and soulmate Laurie; brothers Jim (Kimberly) Shaway, Mark Shaway, Gregory Toporek, sisters Sharon (Donald) Nietzke, Mary Anne (Dominic) Cafagna, Sharon (Dennis) Zelmanski, nieces and nephews; Crystal Toporek, Jessica (Sam) Toporek Chrusciel, Jimmy Shaway, Juliana Shaway, David (Stephanie) Nietzke, Katherine (Jesus) Nietzke Latte, Denise (Matt) Nietzke Blasy, Christina Cafagna, Anthony Cafagna; great niece Angelina Latte; great nephews Giovanni Latte, Jackson, Drew and Max Blasy; along with several cousins and an army of close friends. You never really knew how sick Walter was for so many years and he never complained. His faith in God and the Holy Spirit guided him. He did what he had to do and kept on moving, never stopped. He fought very hard and wanted to live forever. He had a great love for life. He made an incredible impact on many lives. Walter was a great friend, always putting other people’s wants before his own needs. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. He was a true gentleman with a big heart in every sense of the word and his absence will be felt by all. Visitation Sunday 3-9pm with a 7:30pm Rosary at Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons, Inc. 36900 Schoenherr at Metro Pkwy. (16 Mile). Instate Monday 11:00am at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church 22412 Overlake St. in Saint Clair Shores until 12:00pm Mass. As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to The Capuchin Soup Kitchen 1820 Mount Elliott Street, Detroit, MI 48207. Please share memories with the family at their online guestbook at WujekCalcaterra.com.

Walter Ziemniak

September 29, 1953 - June 3, 2024