Stanley F. Zarkowski

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Stanley F. Zarkowski, on January 16, 2026 at the age of 86. Stanley passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his beloved family.

He was born in Los Angeles, California to Frank Zarkowski and wife Marie Liffick on October 27, 1939. Stanley grew up in Los Angeles, attending local schools where he met and married Katherine (Kassie) Hoffarth in 1961. They had two sons, Stanley John and Kenneth. The young family moved to Thousand Oaks, California in 1972, where he resided until his passing. Stanley began working at an early age, but his love for cars led him to work as an auto claims adjuster for State Farm Insurance, where he worked until retirement. Since all of his children lived close by, he enjoyed vacations and holidays spent together, never missing an opportunity to be with family. Stanley was a private pilot, and enjoyed flying around Ventura County or flights to Catalina Island accompanied by Kassie or one of his sons. In their later years, Stanley and Kassie fell in love with Hawaii and regularly took vacations there.

Stanley had a wry sense of humor and made sure there was always banter and laughter at the family gatherings he never missed. He doted on his sons and when the time came he welcomed their wives into the family. In time the family grew to include three grandchildren who delighted him. Stanley loved carrying around his grandbabies while softly singing them to sleep. He was always actively involved in their life. He will also be remembered for his devotion to his father Frank, and loving care of his wife Kassie.

Stanley was preceded in death by his wife Katherine and his son Stanley John Zarkowski. 

He is survived by daughter in law Lynne Zarkowski, his son Kenneth, wife Laura, brother Joe, wife Connie; grandchildren Stanley Joseph Zarkowski, Kenneth Zarkowski, Kayla Zarkowski and great-grandchild Claire Marie Howard.

A memorial service will be held January 31st at 11:00 A.M. at Rose Family Funeral Home, 4444 Cochran Street, Simi Valley, CA 93063.