Zygmunt "Zig" Lebiecki

Zygmunt "Zig" Joseph Lebiecki, 91, of Portage, MI, went home to be with his Lord on Sunday, July 19, 2020. Zig was born on September 27, 1928, in Battle Creek, MI. He was the son of Seweryn and Katherine (Hajduk) Lebiecki. As a young boy, he desired to go out and see the world and found unique ways to raise money to fund his adventures, such as raising rabbits. At 17, Zig joined the Navy, where he repaired sheet metal on airplanes. Recognizing the freedom and opportunities a plane could bring, he pursued and earned his pilot's license in the 1950's. His passion for flying, travel, and adventure led him to visit 49 states in the US, Central America, and Europe. One trip took him to the tip of South America and back. He worked at James River Corporation for over 25 years and retired as the Director of Maintenance & Utilities. In March of 1977, he started a new adventure — marrying his true love, Irene. The two enjoyed spending time in their pool with family, picking and eating raspberries in their yard, traveling to island destinations (their favorite being Kauai), and being actively involved at Southridge Reformed Church. Zig was notorious for cutting the tops off of Irene's freshly baked banana bread. When Zig was 50, he decided to pick up a new hobby, skiing, and spent countless hours on the slopes. Zig also enjoyed bowling, riding bikes, helping his family with various household repairs, maintaining a perfect lawn, and tending to the rose garden. Zig loved his family deeply. He happily taught them anything, spent countless hours cheering his grandchildren on at sporting events, and always had time to listen. He will be remembered for his generous spirit, supportive advice, hardworking ethic, faithfulness to God, sense of humor, and devotion to his family. Deeply loved, Zig will be forever missed. Zig is survived by his wife of 43 years, Irene; sister Donna Domack; sons: John (Cynthia) Lebiecki and Ronald (Tamara) Lebiecki; stepchildren: Robert (Pamela) Van Dam, Linda (Brian) DeDoes, Sharon (Bradley) Norg, Karen Pittman; 18 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his first wife Ruth Lebiecki; sisters: Stella Bailey and Cora Sellon; brothers: Edward Grybos and John Lebiecki. A private memorial service will be held on July 31, 2020. Zig will be buried with military honors at Fort Custer National Cemetery. Please sign the guestbook by lighting a candle and/or sharing a memory with the family. The family is being assisted by the Avink Funeral Home & Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002 (269-344-5600).