Theodore Dzik

Theodore “Ted” S. Dzik, 87, of Palm Harbor, Florida, passed away peacefully on October 23rd, 2024.

Born in Utica, NY to Stanley and Stella (Kaczor) Dzik. Ted was a proud alumnus of the University of Miami, where he majored in political science and excelled as a high jumper. After college, he served his country as both a Marine and Navy jet pilot, demonstrating his courage and dedication in two branches of the armed forces. 

Following his military service, Ted embarked on a successful career with Northeast Airlines and later Delta Air Lines, starting as a flight engineer and rising to the rank of pilot, fulfilling his lifelong passion for aviation. 

Ted shared 56 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Elaine (Garofalo) Dzik, who predeceased him in February 2022. Together, they built a life full of joy, adventure, and lasting memories. Known for his incredible generosity, especially toward his family, Ted was always willing to offer support-whether through financial assistance or his time and wisdom. 

A quintessential present-day renaissance man, Ted was well-rounded and skilled in many areas, including architecture, poetry, writing, history, literature, cooking, discourse, physical sports and many of the trades. His intellectual curiosity and hands-on abilities made him a versatile individual who left an impact on many aspects of life.

A voracious reader, Ted often devoured multiple books in a single day, driven by his thirst for knowledge. He especially loved visiting bookstores, particularly small, out-of-the-way bookshops in the many cities he traveled to during his lifetime, always in search of his next literary discovery. His deep understanding of history and current events made him an engaging conversationalist. He enjoyed sharing his insights with friends and family, enriching their lives with him intellectual curiosity. His passion for reading, writing, and learning was evident throughout his life and he approached each day with discipline and a hunger for knowledge.

An avid weightlifter and bodybuilder well into his 70s, Ted maintained a strong, muscular physique and was admired for his dedication to fitness and health. He was equally skilled in the kitchen. He enjoyed cooking and sharing meals with others, creating moments of joy and connection around the dinner table. 

A lifelong fan of the University of Miami, Ted never missed an opportunity to cheer on the Hurricanes. 

Ted is survived by his loving nephews and their spouses: Kenneth and Linda Garofalo of Revere, MA, and Christopher and Julie Garofalo of Norwood, NJ. He will be remembered for his kindness, his generosity-both financial and personal-his talents in the kitchen and the gym, and his eagerness to share his vast knowledge with those around him.