Walter G. Zajko

Walter Zajko, age 82, was a longtime resident of the Romeo area, passed away at his home surrounded by family on June 2nd. Walter was born in Hamtramck to Josephine and Walt Zajko in 1938, where he lived until his father moved the family to Romeo where he opened a collision shop in the late 1940s. Walter began working in the shop when he was 14 years old, and graduated from Romeo High School in 1956. He opened his used car lot in 1958 and eventually founded Romeo AMC/Jeep. His first year in business he made just one dollar in profit. He met his lovely bride when she brought in her Ford Galaxy convertible to repair a dent in the bumper. He personally delivered her repaired car to her house, where he asked for a date and the rest is history. He was a life member of the Romeo Masonic Lodge, and was active in supporting community organizations. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, going up north and spending time with his family and his dog Joe. Walter is survived by his wife of over 57 years, Barbara; his two children, Tom Zajko, Lori (Greg) Wingerter, three grandchildren Tyler (Carly), Samantha, Evan, two and a half great-grandchildren Elaina, Anna and baby-on-the-way, his brother Gene Zajko and sister Mary Harris. He was preceded in death by his sister Wanda (Bernard) Metzger and Susan (Peter) Bilokas. Walter was a proud husband, father and grandfather. He will be dearly missed by all. A private funeral service will be held for the family. Memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of Michigan or the Shriners Hospital for Children. Local arrangements taken care at the Henry M. Malburg Funeral Home of Romeo, Mi.