Kenneth James Maczko

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Peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, at St. Joseph’s Hospice, Sarnia, on Friday, November 6, 2026, Kenneth James Maczko passed away at the age of 74.

Beloved husband of the late Dolores Maczko (née Pilkey) (2018), Cherished partner and dear friend of Suzanne Joosse. Loving brother of Jamie (Kathy) Maczko and the late Betty Ann Turner (née Maczko) and her late husband John. Ken will be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews, with whom he shared a special bond. Predeceased by his parents, Jim and Betty Maczko; nephew James Maczko Jr.; sisters-in-law Gloria Pilkey and Leslie Pilkey; and brothers-in-law Terry Pilkey, Lyle Acton and Bob Kerwin.

To his friends, Ken will always be affectionately remembered as “Zacko.” His wit and sense of humour brought lots of laughter to those around him. A dedicated teacher and principal, accomplished athlete, loyal friend and partner, much-loved brother and brother-in-law, and beloved uncle, Ken touched many lives and will be deeply missed.

A gifted athlete in his younger years, Ken played high school football, Junior B hockey, varsity hockey with the University of Western Ontario and SMAA baseball. His competitive spirit remained throughout his life, whether cheering on his favourite football teams, making his weekly football picks, or enjoying friendly and sometimes not so friendly, banter about politics with family and friends.

A devoted educator, Ken dedicated his career to teaching and later served as a respected elementary school principal with the St. Clair Catholic District School Board. He was deeply passionate about education and made a lasting impact on countless students, many of whom fondly remembered his encouragement and guidance long after leaving the classroom.

The loss of Ken’s beloved wife and high school sweetheart, Dolores, in 2018 left a hole in Ken’s life that could never be filled. In time however, he was blessed to find renewed love, friendship, companionship and joy with Suzanne. Together, they shared lots of laughter, travel and many happy memories. Ken loved to travel and especially enjoyed recent adventures to Costa Rica and Mexico.

To Ken, family was very important and he loved occasions when everyone would come together for a home cooked meal. He was the Uncle who never arrived empty handed, often bringing bags of popcorn for all the nieces and nephews.

Ken will be long remembered for his kindness, generosity, sense of humour and the positive influence he had on all those fortunate enough to know him.

Family and friends will be received at Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia, on Thursday, November 12, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Church, 1465 Lecaron Ave., Sarnia, on Friday, November 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Interment of ashes to follow at Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery, Sarnia.

Sympathy may be expressed through donations to St. Joseph’s Hospice, Sarnia (cheques only when donating at the funeral home please).