Fr. Andrew Zaherek (Father Zeke)
A good man died on Sunday, May 20th. His name is Andrew Zaherek, known to most as Father Zeke. He was known around the greater Fort Lauderdale community as a Rescuer.
He was born in Connecticut 67 years ago. He began his early life as a young man in need of rescue himself. After bouts with the disease of addiction, Father Zeke eventually, with the help of his Higher Power, turned his life around. He served his country in the military as a Marine. Inspired by 12-step spirituality, Father Zeke was ordained a minister in the Congregational Church. Later, he returned to his Catholic roots and was ordained a Catholic Priest of the Independent Catholic movement. He served mainly hurting and needy people of the Fort Lauderdale area. He served and worked out of Holy Angels National Catholic Church in Wilton Manors, which is now in Oakland Park.
Father Zeke counseled many people in need, baptizing their children, performing their marriages and presiding over funerals when called upon. He never could keep money in his pockets, giving it away as he saw fit. In his mind, there was always someone who needed it more than he did.
Father Zeke would be the last one to see himself as a saint. He saw himself as a human being, dealing with struggles in his own personal life. These struggles came to a head in the past two years. He found himself once again in need of rescue, once again dealing with a demon of the past, a rescuer in need of rescue. He died May 20th in a Half Way house, in the midst of his recovery process, in a safe, caring, alcohol and drug free environment.
For those he was able to help, thanks for the privilege. For those he offended in any way, he asks your forgiveness in iove without judgment. For those who helped him, he is eternally grateful.
A good man died on Sunday, May 20th. His Higher Power called him home. His battle is over.
Till we meet again, rest in peace, Father Zeke.
Viewing and Funeral Mass will be on Tuesday, May 29th. Viewing from 2 till 8pm. Mass of the Resurrection at 7pm at the Funeral Home, Fred Hunter's on US 1 south of the tunnel, 718 South Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale. All clergy are invited to participate. Bring attire appropriate to your denomination.
At a later date to be determined by the personnel at the new Veteran's cemetery near Lake Worth. Father Zeke's cremains will be interred with full military honors. He was a Marine veteran.
