Obituary: In memory of Gerald R. Zlotkowski

Gerald R. Zlotkowski was born on April 1, 1970 in Canada, and was adopted by his loving parents Robert and Betty Zlotkowski in New York.  He graduated from Ward Melville High School in Setauket in 1988.  He went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in Mortuary Science from Farmingdale State College in 1993 and worked at several funeral homes on Long Island. Zlotkowski’s belief in never letting age stop you from learning led him to go back to school at multiple points in his life. 

Zlotkowski also worked as a devoted firefighter, dispatcher and rescue EMT for several fire departments on Long Island, including West Sayville, Nesconset, Smithtown and Setauket.  Zlotkowski loved helping and being involved in his community.  He was the kind of person who always held out a helping hand for anyone who needed it.  Zlotkowski was a hero to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Zlotkowski was an avid outdoorsman and loved spending time hunting and at the gun range. His passion for firearms led him to become the owner and founder of Dakota Defense inn Aberdeen, South Dakota.  His love for law enforcement brought him to Ashley, North Dakota to pursue a career as an Assistant Deputy Sheriff.

Zlotkowski went on to a career as a conductor and engineer with Burlington Northern and Santa Fe Railway based out of Aberdeen, South Dakota, where he worked until his passing.  He was proud to serve the SMART-TD Local 233 Railroad Union as a past president as well as a secretary and treasurer up until his passing.

On October 5, 2006, his world changed greatly with the birth of his son, Gunner. Zlotkowski loved his son greatly and spent time with him whenever he could.  He passed on to Gunner his love of firearms and they enjoyed going hunting together. 

Gerald Zlotkowski is survived by his son, Gunner; sister, Susan Brocato; and numerous family and friends. He was predeceased by his beloved parents.

A celebration of life will take place at the Setauket Firehouse, 190 Main Street, Setauket on March 23 at 1 p.m.