Obituary of Zygmunt Fenik

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Zygmunt John Fenik, who left us peacefully on March 29, 2025, at Hospice Simcoe, with his beloved wife, Margie (Marikay), by his side. Zygmunt was born on March 13, 1947, in Hornburg, Germany, to Sophie (née Wisniewska) and Daniel Fenik, who met while interned during World War II. At the age of two, Zyg and his parents immigrated to Canada, settling in Blenheim, Ontario, where Zyg grew up alongside his siblings, Christine (Bill) and Dennis (Ellie). Together, the family worked on their onion farm, fostering a deep sense of family and community that would remain a cornerstone throughout Zyg's life.

After graduating from Blenheim High School, Zyg went on to attend the University of Windsor, where he earned a degree that would shape the rest of his life and career. It was during this time that fate brought him together with Margie King on a camping trip. They quickly fell in love, and by the time Zyg was attending Law School at the University of Western Ontario, they were engaged. The couple married on October 2, 1971.

After completing law school, Zyg was called to the Bar in 1974, marking the beginning of his distinguished legal career. He accepted an articling position with Evans and Evans in Bradford, where he and Margie began their life together. It was in Bradford that they welcomed their two sons, Colin (Jillian) and Ian (Julie), whom they adored. Following his time with Evans and Evans, Zyg opened his own private law practice in Bradford and quickly became an active member of the community. He proudly served as a Town Councillor and as the Mayor of Bradford from 1981 to 1985—a position he always looked back on with fondness and pride.

As his family grew, Zyg and Margie moved to Barrie, where Zyg embraced the role of grandfather with immense joy. He became “Papa” to his grandchildren Abbigael (Abbi), Garin, and Claire. Papa was known for his love and devotion to his grandchildren, always ready to listen to their stories, share his wisdom, and make lasting memories. His love for them was boundless, and they will miss his warm presence and kind guidance.

Zyg will also be missed by his nieces and nephews, who held a special place in his heart.

Professionally, Zyg was known for his unwavering commitment to law. He dedicated much of his life to the practice of law, mentoring countless young attorneys and leaving a lasting impact on those who worked alongside him. Zyg cherished the people he met in the courtroom, and his influence will continue to be felt by the many lives he touched.

Outside of his professional life, Zyg had many passions. He was an avid motorcyclist, and it was a common sight to see him riding with a colourful tie fluttering behind him, a symbol of his love for freedom and adventure. Zyg and Margie also enjoyed many trips to Jamaica, a paradise that holds a special place in their hearts. In fact, Zyg’s last trip to Jamaica was just weeks before his passing, a beautiful memory that he cherished deeply.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Zyg’s honor at Skwarchuk Funeral Home, 30 Simcoe Road, Bradford on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. We invite all who knew him to join us in remembering his life and legacy.

Zyg's family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks for the outpouring of love and support. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Michael’s Hospital or Hospice Simcoe in Zyg's memory.

Zygmunt Fenik will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, integrity, and service to his community will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.