Casimer “Casey” Sigmund Ziemba, 81, of Paw Paw, passed away Thursday, Sept. 5, 2024, at Bronson Methodist Hospital, Kalamazoo. Casey came into this world on March 5, 1943, at Cook County Hospital, Chicago. He was the son of Frank Ziemba and Sophie (Wlodarczyk) Ziemba. He was named after his uncles, Casimer and Sigmund Wlodarczyk, who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II. Throughout his life, Casey wore his name with pride and honor for his late uncles. He was also extremely proud of his Polish descent.
Casey graduated from Covert High School with the Class of 1961. On July 3, 1965, Casey was united in marriage with his beloved bride, Phyllis, at St. Basil Catholic Church, South Haven, Michigan. Casey was an auto mechanic his whole life, starting his career around the South Haven and Kalamazoo areas. He helped open Firestone Auto Care, West Main, Kalamazoo. Casey went on to open his own automotive shops, operating Twin Starr Auto for over 40 years. He also participated in mud running and stock car racing when he was younger. His love for cars was showcased through his cherished Lincoln Town Car.
Casey was a people person. He loved life and lived each day as if it were his last. He made a new friend almost everywhere he went. He loved bowling and was a member of many bowling leagues over the years. He enjoyed watching/reading old westerns, especially ones with John Wayne! His favorite TV show was Gunsmoke. Casey also enjoyed cheering on his beloved Dallas Cowboys and Duke basketball teams.
There is no doubt that family was of the utmost importance to Casey. He adored his grandchildren and was extremely proud of them. The grandchildren referred to him as “Dzia Dzia”, which means grandfather in Polish. He enjoyed hosting family barbeques and going on family trips to Graceland and Florida.
He is survived by the love of his life, Phyllis (Pettitt) Ziemba; daughters, Cassandra (Russell) Keech, Candy (late Adrian Leighton) Ziemba and Cheryl “Joey” (Jim) Imus; son, Chris (Cyndy) Ziemba; six grandchildren, Brisa (Ryen Fusko) Leighton, Braelyn Leighton, Christopher Ziemba, James Imus, Luke Imus and Destry Ziemba-Leighton; several nieces and nephews and close friends who never left his side, Erwin Bunschoten and Jon Wood.
Casey was preceded in death by his parents; son, Casimir “Casey” John; sisters, Frances and Mary Ann, brother-in-law, Dave, his Auntie Jo and the uncles whom he was named after, Casimer and Sigmund Wlodarczyk.
Family and friends are invited to visit Sunday, Sept. 15, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Adams Funeral Home, 502 West Michigan Ave., Paw Paw, where a celebration of life will be held at 3 p.m.
In lieu of donations, honor Casey by giving someone a helping hand.
