Max Zurko

Birth date: Jan 22, 1948 Death date: Feb 13, 2025

Max John Zurko was born in Wilmington, Delaware, the youngest child of Stephen and Anna (Schurko). Like many Northerners, the warm and sunny climate of Florida proved to be alluring to his parents, and when he was 7 years old, the Read Obituary

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Janna Mcconnell

52w ago

Max and I had been friends and classmates since Madison Junior High and Edison Senior High in Miami. I corresponded with him not too long before his passing and he told me of his illness. He was a remarkably accomplished and interesting person. I visited him at the house he built in Tallahassee a few years ago and was amazed at the ingenuity. We used to joke about Bear DE and one summer during junior high, he sent me a postcard from there with a Delaware weed taped on. I have so many fond memories of him. and we had great times working on the school newspaper. It was always fun to get together at the Madison reunions in Ocala. I will truly miss him. Rest in peace

Casey Mahoney

56w ago

Mr. Zurko was a great teacher and impacted many. He knew there was no way I’d ever do anything in life related to architecture or woodworking, but he was still so patient with me. I still have my little crab bank I made…I was so proud. Rest in peace Mr. Zurko. 🙏

Alexandriashiryl Moore

56w ago

RIP to the Best Shop Teacher Ever

He was a kind-hearted man, always patient, always encouraging. His legacy lives on, not only in his son, Chad Zurko , who carries the same warmth, but in the countless students he inspired.

I thought about your dad today as I prepared to stain my dresser—realizing I hadn't done anything like this since high school shop class.

I can still hear him:

Mr. Zurko: "We're building a box or a birdhouse. You’ll cut the wood and stain it."

Me: "I can't do it."

Mr. Z: "Shiryl, just go slow. Just try it. Staining is just painting the wood—layer by layer for a deeper color. See? Let it dry in between."

I remember running into the shop during lunch, eager to get more done.

Mr. Z: "Staining again?"

Me: "Real quick!"

Thank you, Mr. Zurko—for your patience, your kindness, and for teaching us that sometimes, all we need to do is try.

William "Bill" Mcwhinney

57w ago

I was sad to hear the recent passing of my favorite High School teacher, Max Zurko. Mr Zurko's wisdom and humor had a profound effect on me, and who I am as a person. Mr Zurko was an industrial arts teacher but he taught more than Industrial arts. He taught life skills, pride, work ethic, and what it is to be a decent human being. The last time I saw Mr Zurko was in 1979 yet the impression he left on me lasted my entire life. I'm sure he will be dearly missed by his friends, family and former students.

Jason Raymond

59w ago

I was wondering what I could say about Mr. Zurko, so I asked myself, "Self, what do you remember most?" The answer is that I remember his sense of humor. I had him for two classes, basic industrial arts in 8th grade, and drafting in 12th. Those were two of the most challenging, and fun, classes I ever had. I learned that tasks that seem impossible can be done if you have the right tools, a good teacher to show you how to use them, and the willingness to put in the work. Those were some of the most valuable lessons I learned in school.

Griff Houck

59w ago

Coffee at my house after church every Sunday. I miss you Max.

Dana Farcas-Jones

60w ago

in honor of Max.

You took Max Zurko’s Carpentry class thinking it would be an easy class. Instead you found yourself challenged and learning life lessons, that still apply today, and never once with a harsh word. You might get a little sarcasm but that’s because Mr. Zurko expected you to think. He was always smiling and positive to his students. The world has truly lost a great person! RIP

A lit candle with a soft flame, surrounded by small white flowers and green leaves, set against a warm yellow background.

Robert Dj Smith

60w ago

As a former Florida High Demon, I now see that there were some real characters on staff. Mr. Zurko was one of the best.

I only had him for one carpentry class and one day of detention (which I earned), but I talked to and laughed with him regularly in the school driveway that had the two large magnolia trees. I'd ask him about his van and who was in trouble that day. He never had anything negative to say about the kids that were reporting to detention that day or every day. As a kid I didn't recognize it, but today I'd call him a true optimist. He put a positive spin on everything and his smile was contagious.

I specifically remember him telling our class that men clog bathroom drains more than women, with their balding hair and constant stubble. The whole class laughed at how gross, obscure and silly his trivia tidbit was.

I am certain that thousands of former students and staff will remember him fondly and eternally. Rest in peace, Mr. Zurko.