Zbigniew Dolacinski Lemus, known to family and friends as either Zbi or Dan, passed away on November 7, 2022 at his home in Ocala, Florida at the age of 49. He was predeceased by his father Zbigniew Dolacinski Sr., and is survived by his mother Julieta Mitchell, grandmother Amalia Carpenter, wife Jennifer Yuen, daughter Kara Dolacinski, and sisters Bashi Dolacinski and Aggie Doty.
Zbi was born in Guatemala on July 12, 1973 and emigrated to the United States with his mother and sisters in 1983. He grew up in Queens, NY, graduated from William Cullen Bryant High School, and earned his associate’s degree from Borough of Manhattan Community College. He enlisted in the US Navy in 1991 and received an honorable discharge in 1995. During his time in the Navy he was assigned to an air support unit and was awarded a Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon.
After returning to civilian life, Zbi had a varied career in the hospitality industry where he was highly esteemed and well known for his infectious smile, quick wit, and compassionate spirit. He was a highly respected manager at the famous Oyster Bar Restaurant in Grand Central Station for five years, and worked at the equally renowned Russian Tea Room and other establishments throughout New York City. More recently, he was a member of team Lowes in Ocala, Florida.
In his spare time he enjoyed the challenge of figuring out how mechanical devices worked, and he often spent time dismantling and reassembling objects to satisfy his curiosity. By all accounts Zbi was an exceptional cook where his passion for cooking was only exceeded by his happiness at seeing others enjoy the result of his culinary efforts.
Zbi was known for his amiable and calm demeanor, open-mindedness, and intellectual curiosity. He loved his family and friends and the feeling was reciprocated. He will be missed by all those fortunate enough to know him during his relatively short life.