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THE NEWSPAPER POSITIVELY FOR, BY & ABOUT THE DISABLED

Passing of Incredible Force Saddens CommunityPETER THE GREAT

Peter Zarba

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By Angela Miele MelledyPeter Zarba came from a great

family. One didn’t have to meetany of them, but just knew thatthis very special person had tocome from a great family.

Zarba, 56, died Feb. 8 after aheart attack. He grew up inLynbrook and was the third of sixchildren. Both parents were teach-ers.

His mother Mary died when hewas a sophomore at St. Pius Pre-paratory Seminary and his fa-ther, Anthony, went on to raisethe children alone and later mar-ried Zarba’s stepmother Tess.During his freshman year atSyracuse University he was in-volved in an auto accident thatleft him quadriplegic.

According to a 1999 Able News-paper interview with Zarba, itreally didn’t slow him down toomuch. Describing himself as an

“incurable optimist,” he explainedhow his mother had always beensupportive no matter what he didand his father was always proudand confident in all his childrenand taught them independence.It followed that his brothers andsisters supported each other andcame together when Zarbaneeded them.

Soon after he rehabilitated atRusk Institute he continued hiscollege education at HofstraUniversity where he discoveredwheelchair sports and learnedwhat it was like to be disabled.He learned that people with dis-abilities could have fulfilled livesand those he came in contactwith were doing well.

Your fearless embrace of life, love,family, and friends, and your tireless efforts to helpanyone and everyone in need are an inspiration to me and everyone who knewyou. I miss you today and will miss you every day, for the rest of my life.Chris Zarba, Pete’s Brother

Mom’s Poem ReviseHe raced across his calendar and ours, Like some benevolent meteor,Behind he left a blaze of soaring light and love, Enough for each of us.So let us preach louder than his absence, How wonderful he was, and how lucky wewere, Till we dance together, again, and forever.Theresa Zarba-Kenny, Pete’s Sister

My sweetest Pete,I’ll continue to talk to you and seek your advice. And I’ll continue to see your sparklingblue eyes looking back at me. It’s just that now I’ll be looking up. Up towards the sun.You’ll live in my heart till beyond the day I die.Rose Zarba-Kastl, Pete’s Sister

Pete, I know what you have been up to.. I finally understand your message. If we arewise enough to recognize your impact and to celebrate your gifts, we are wiseenough to realize that the very same potential for love, compassion, joy, gratitude,and peace is in each and every one of us. I, for one, plan to make you proud.Gina Zarba-Thiemann, Pete’s Sister

Pete was my hero! Every time I spoke with him I would end the call with “I love youPete - you are my hero”. Pete took all the difficulties of life (and he was dealt morethan his share) and used them as advantages. He only saw advantages notdisadvantages, only the good in everyone he met never the bad. Pete, I love youand you are still my hero!!! SisMary Zarba, Pete’s Sister

Peter will forever be remembered for his tireless dedication to the Games for thePhysically Challenged and the athletes that compete. We will miss his advocacy,but his legacy will live on through the continuation of the Games.Ed Mangano, Nassau County Executive

Zarba, who was a customerfirst, found a career sellingadapted vans at j.bussani, inc. andwas later elevated to sales man-ager, a position he held until hisdeath.

“Pete’s contribution to my busi-ness and the mobility industry asa whole, cannot be measured,”said Founder and Pres. JohnBussani. “His passing leaves ahuge void in my life, personallyand professionally, as well as thelives of the many, many peoplehe touched.”

He participated in the NationalWheelchair Athletic Association,competing in regional meets ini-tially as a swimmer and then awheelchair racer where he metand started dating a volunteerand student, Molly Keck. He laterfound table tennis and trained inWhite Plains two nights a weekafter work and one weekend dayeach week until he was goodenough to compete on the 1988United States Paralympic Team.He reached the rank of third inthe world.

In 1985 he started and has runthe table tennis competition forthe children at the Empire StateGames for the Physically Chal-

lenged where he was given thename “Ping Pong Pete.” He con-tinued doing that through lastyear’s games.

Zarba married Keck in 1992and when table tennis becametoo time consuming he foundquad rugby. He also competedin marathons and successfullysued the New York Road Run-ners to make the New YorkMarathon accessible for wheel-chair users.

Zarba was a fisherman, akayaker and a hunter.

He also was involved with thementoring program at Mt. Sinaihospital where he and friend Pe-ter Hawkins took newly disabledpeople with spinal cord injuriesskydiving and scuba diving. Hesaw himself as a role model foryoungsters with disabilities aswell as newly-disabled adults andwas known to consult with andmentor many.

Children were an importantpart of his life and in 1999 theZarba’s had twins Mary and Pe-ter who will be entering highschool in September. Althoughmost haven’t met them it is cer-

Peter and Molly

Ready to skydive

Remembering Pete

Peter and friend Pete Hawkins

John Bussani, Pete and friends

tain that if they do they will saythey came from a great family.

Peter Zarba had a short life thathe filled with so many experiencesand achievements. He is describedas kind, smart, giving, funny,dynamic and loving and everyonewho met him walked away feel-ing they were his friend.

He is survived by his wife,Molly, children Mary and Peter,sisters Mary, Theresa, Rose andGina and brother Christopher, anmany nieces and nephews andthousands of friends whose liveshe touched along the way.

Everyone’s Friend, Peter Zarba Gone at 56OBITUARY

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PEROne Friday in 1980, Pete Zarba, on his way home from Holfstra, came into my life.Bussani Mobility embarked on a client relationship with Pete by maintaining his Fordvan and from that relationship, we became fast friends. Pete saw our industry asbeing the ideal way for him to help other folks who were wheelchair users and wewere blessed to have him join our team and become a contributor to the industry.Our friendship flourished as we became far more than friends and much more thanemployer and employee. Pete’s incredible drive, pure honesty and love of life wereincomparable. From Olympic competitions in Korea and Australia, to fishing in theafternoon following a work day, this man never stopped moving. We are all betterpeople for having known Pete.John Bussani, Founder and President Bussani Mobility Team

Peter has been part of my life and family since I was 7 years old. His impact on thelast 30 years of my life is unable to be put into just a few words. Knowing him hasgiven me a sense of strength and comfort everyday. He has helped me thru life as ayoung man and as a professional, just like he has for so many others. His sense ofhumor was brilliant and infectious. Even on the toughest of days, his optimisim wouldprevail. His love for his family was inspiring and his ability to overcome obstacles wastruly amazing. I can’t begin to understand what my life will be like without him, onlythat I look forward to the day we meet again.Dan Bussani, Vice President Bussani Mobility Team

Peter was the first person I met in a wheelchair who had a positive outlook on life.Most of the people I met were very negative, but not Pete. He had an indomitablespirit and really lived life! Whether he was fishing, racing, skydiving, scuba diving, orany number of things he was always having fun. When you were around Pete youjust knew that’s where you were supposed to be. He will be missed by many.Peter Hawkins, Friend

We will miss Pete’s smiling face, kindness, positive attitude and generosity. God hascalled you home and the heavens have gained a special Angel. Rest in Peace myfriend. You will forever be in our hearts. Thoughts and Prayers to Peter’s Family.Susan Maxwell, Program Director, Victory Challenge

One of the truly great and passionate souls in our world.Bob Wagner, Sales Coordinator, El Dorado Minivans

I first met Peter during the early 1980’s. The first thing that impressed me about theperson I came to call my friend also turned out to be the most compelling charac-teristic I will remember forever his natural way of embracing others with a smile anda demeanor that said “let’s solve the problem, not create it.”I had the absolute joyof interacting with Peter on a continuing basis and getting to know him both on aprofessional and personal level. He will always stand tall as an icon to his family, friends,colleagues and his beloved Long Beach. I will keep in my heart forever as will many.Don Dreyer, Former Dir. Nassau County Office for the Physically Challenged

If you were ever part of the wheelchair community on Long Island, your life hasbeen touched by Peter. Whether you met him while looking for an accessible van,participating in a local race, paddling or boating in the waters off Island Park orplaying quad rugby, he left an indelible impression on you. I will remember hisspirit, his wonderful sense of humor, his drive to make life better for those with dis-abilities, and his many silly nicknames. Peter, my friend, was a force and will begreatly missed.Christine Blake Jeramias, Friend

The Z man will always be in my heart every time I go fishing as that was a passion weboth shared and the boots!! Many memories, always the “Quad answering ser-vice” skit, we did at NMEDA in Phoenix, that was a Hoot!! A funny guy, wild andcrazy antics, I will miss you my friend!Peter B. Ruprecht, Pres. Drive-Master Co., Inc.

Peter Zarba was an extraordinary human being. He was as tough as they come,mentally and physically. He was kind compassionate and friendly. I never saw Peteapproach without a warm smile and handshake, “How are ya brother” For me, itwas a hug around the neck. His quick wit and great sense of humor was a glimpse ofhis great intellect. A great husband, wonderful and proud Dad and a real genuine,caring friend. GOD Bless Pete and his wonderful family.Ken Nielsen, Mobility Consultant

It will not be the same without you. May flights of angels take thee to thy rest.Grace and Dom Palestino, Games for the Physically Challenged Committee Heads

Pete Zarba made a difference. He was a champion for people with disabilities andmaking life accessible for all people. His mark will be carved in history throughoutNorth America as an agent for change and goodwill. To know Pete is to love him.Nick Gutwein, President, The Braun Corporation

Peter was truly a truly blessed man who was loved and admired by all for his drysense of humor, his love of family, friends and work. He started a ping pong compe-tition at the Games for the Physically Challenged in 1985 and made it so much funfor everyone that it has become one of the most popular events at the Games. Wewill never forget you “Ping Pong Pete.“ when I think of Peter I am reminded of theIrish prayer that says “Grieve Not...Nor Speak of me with tears. But Laugh and Talk ofme as though I were beside you. I loved you so.’twas Heaven here with you“ ThankYou Peter for sharing your love with all of us. Susan, Frank, Shayne and Taylor Ryan.Susan Gordon Ryan, Founder and Former Dir. Games for the Physically Challenged

I met Pete when I purchased my first van from Bussani Inc. almost 26 years ago. Hewas smart and congenial, and he was the same great guy when we talked late lastyear at Bussani in Mamaroneck. And back in the late 1990s, I really enjoyed being amember with Pete of the New York quad rugby team. I made every practice but Ididn’t get much game time. During one blowout match, I played for a few minutesand it was Pete who threw me four or five passes until I actually caught one to scoremy first and only quad rugby goal! Yes, Pete cared about winning quad rugbymatches, but he also appreciated the effort of all of his teammates, including thelast guy off the bench.Terry Moakley, United Spinal Association

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Peter with son Peter and daughter Mary.

Playing RugbyThe Zarba sisters, left to right, Gina, Mary, Rose and Theresa withbrother Chris in the middle.

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A “wheelchair athlete,” Pete was a successful sales manager. In his friendly, humoristway, Pete would steer you towards a more active life. Whether it was getting fund-ing so a wheelchair rugby team could rent a practice venue, or serving on the Boardof Directors of UCP-Suffolk, Pete Zarba was getting it done without fanfare. I suspectthat Pete is now measuring those pearly gates for wheelchair access. Rest in peace.Bruce Blower, Former Dir. Suffolk Office of Handicapped Services

Peter was an angel from the first day we met. With my son newly injured at the timehe not only gave us hope that he would have a normal life after a SCI but wasinspired us to start the Testaverde Fund and help over 200 families . He and his familyshould be very proud because he is a real hero. He had become a great friend tomy son Joe as well as a role model. I know your in heaven standing tall and catchingsome 40lb fish as we speak . God Bless Pete and his Family.Anthony Testaverde, , President, Testaverde Fund For Spinal Cord Injury

My prayers and sympathies go out to the Zarba family in these difficult times. I metPeter over 20 years ago when I became disabled and required hand controls in myvehicle and have had positive business dealings with him on numerous occasions.Peter will truly be missed.David Snowden, Former coordin. of Disabled Services at Madison Square Garden

Peter was a true friend and the passion he had for our industry will be truly missed.Our prayers for Molly and the children.Mark DiRosa,Vice President NMEDA & Mobility Dealer

Pete Zarba’s zest for life was second, only to his desire to help others.Many, myself included, have been enriched by Pete’s generosity, selfless-ness and good counsel. May God grant him an eternity of good fishing.Matt Dwyer, Dir. Nassau County Office for the Physically Challenged

Many new wheelchair users were lucky enough to meet Peter when they went toBussani. He was their role model and proof that people with disabilities can be pro-ductive, happy and fulfilled. A friend, on learning of his passing said, “He helped meout so many times.” I told him thousands of people with disabilities and their familiescould say the same thing. And let’s not forget – in addition to all this Peter was a veryfunny guy. Too short a life, but a life very well lived.Jim Weisman, SVP and General Counsel, United Spinal Association

Everything was easy for Pete. He never made anything stand in his way. WhenI heard that he suffered a heart attack I prayed and was confident that hewould find a way back. I will remember his smile, his kindness and the way healways greeted me each time we met “Jenny, my Jamaican girl.” He wouldalways Inquire from Denton “where is my pepper pot soup. We loved Pete. Myhope is that Pete realized how much he was appreciated during his time onthis earth.On behalf myself, Denton, Gus , friends and teammates “WE LOVEYOU PETE”Jennifer Johnson, Paralympian, WASUSA and USATT Hall of Famer

I met Pete Zarba probably in the early 1980s, when I obtained my very first set ofhand controls. We later went on to see each other often at wheelchair sportingevents, including watching Peter at wheelchair rugby. Later I became a co-workerof Peter’s at Bussani’s in Bethpage. Peter will be an IMPOSSIBLE act to follow - adiligent, dedicated and knowledgeable worker in his field - with a reputation asbig as his smile.Michael Zangari,, Pricing Analyst at Home Medical Equipment

Besides being a very good friend of mine Peter also served as a mentor for me through-out the course of my career. He was a visionary for people with disabilities and al-ways impressed upon me the endless possibilities and responsibilities that we all havetowards achieving these goals. Peter’s life experiences and accomplishments werethe quintessential role model for people with disabilities.Rob Pipia, Executive Assistant to Town of Hempstead Supervisor Kate Murray

He is the Great Zarba. He was a Great person so the name was fitting. I askedfor help years ago as the softball team didnt have teams to play. He put me intouch with the LICIL and we arranged games and bbq’s and Bussani. Weneeded jerseys and a backstop - done deal. He was always willing to helpwhether it was a tricky van conversion or advice on getting care for my agingmom he was there for me as my friend & colleague. Peter we love you, we missyou and we will see you again.Tony Fitzgerald, Nassau. Aviators and ACCES

Peter was unequivocally the best person I’ve ever known. This is a terrible loss to thedisability community, as well as mankind in general.Angela Melledy, Publisher, Able Newspaper

REMEMBERING PETER ZARBAContinued from page 13