Cory James Zywicki, 61, of Twig, Minnesota, left an enduring legacy of love, passing away peacefully surrounded by his family, on January 23rd, 2025. Even in his final moments, he exemplified the true depth of his love by giving gentle kisses and tenderly mouthing the words “I love you”.
Cory’s unapologetic honesty, enthusiasm for music and dance, and gift for storytelling made him a magnetic presence. His life was undeniably full, vibrant, and meaningful. He was universally respected, and everyone considered him a friend.
Cory’s life journey began in Duluth, Minnesota, where he was born to Lawrence Zywicki and Judith (Erlandson) Zywicki on November 29th, 1963. He was a standout elite player on the varsity hockey team and graduated from Proctor High School in 1982. Shortly thereafter, he courageously entered the army, serving as an Army Medic and pursuing higher education at the University of Duluth. His heart was filled with love as he married Sheryl on April 28th, 1984, and welcomed their first child, Jennifer, followed by the additions of Felicia, Coy, and Coleman. He was a great role model in showing love and respect, helping others, the importance of family, hard work, accountability, and more.
With an unwavering commitment to his craft, he thrived as a self-employed painter, while his intuitive talent as a craftsman allowed him to breathe life into his ideas, building and fixing with remarkable finesse, a true reflection of his extraordinary intellect. Furthermore, he was an esteemed Bakery Operations Manager, who expertly provided mastery and exquisite baked goods to the community at Jubilee Foods. His love for the outdoors was contagious, evident in his enthusiasm for hunting and fishing. He was deeply passionate about shooting and had a remarkable expertise with guns, reflecting his love for the sport. His green thumb, yielded breathtaking gardens, overflowing with an array of vibrant vegetables, his sweet corn being the crowning achievement. His dedication to his family shone through as he spent hours on his back 40, mowing and creating incredible trails for his kids and grandkids to enjoy on his four-wheeler. Cory was a remarkably gifted cook and baker, inspiring others with his creations, particularly his exceptional spaghetti.
Cory’s grandkids were his crowning glory, and their presence in his life awakened a deep sense of purpose and happiness that inspired him to embrace his best qualities. Being a grandpa came naturally to him. His grandkids cherished his jokes, his hugs and affection, and how he always had pocketfuls of candy for them, creating lasting memories. He experienced immense delight in lovingly feeding them with his home-cooked meals, infused with love and affection.
He is preceded to heaven by his beloved grandparents (Ambrose and Louise Zywicki, and Raymond and Adeline Erlandson) and father (Lawrence Zywicki). He is remembered with love and gratitude by his mother, Judith (Erlandson) Zywicki, wife, Sheryl (Hall) Zywicki, and four children, Jennifer (Nick) Farrell, Felicia (Khanh) Doung, Coy, and Coleman; six grandchildren, Alex, Gianna, Vilynn, Braylen, Mila, and Kohen. Three siblings, Carrie (Micah) Harris, Linda (Fritz) Kronzer, and Jeremy (Kara) Zywicki. Nieces and nephews, Terani, Trent, Bryce, Nicholas, Ava, Owen, and countless family and friends.
Cory’s courageous fight came to an end due to complications from his brave battle with gastric cancer. His family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional staff at Atrium Health in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Holy Cross Hospital in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
A visitation will be held on Friday, January 31st, 2025, from 5pm-7pm, with a second visitation on Saturday, February 1st from 12pm-1pm. The funeral service will take place at 1pm at Bethlehem Lutheran Church located at 6537 Industrial Road, Saginaw, MN 55779. Light refreshments will be served after the funeral service.
His friends and family are warmly invited to join us in a celebration in honor of Cory’s remarkable life, as we pay tribute to his admirable spirit and precision in everything he did. Join us to share cherished memories and honor the impact he made in all our lives.
