Obituary for Constance B. "Connie" Zalk
It’s with terrible sadness that I convey the death of Connie Zalk, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, friend and ally. She died peacefully at home on Monday, July 26th, 2021, in the company of loved ones, after a long period of illness that she had kept very private. That she lived gregariously and vibrantly, even to the end, is a testament to her character — forgoing sympathy, she didn’t want anyone to worry about her.
Above all, Connie’s life was one of service — from her time as a New York City public school teacher, to her admirable career in City government and the non-profit sector, she was respected for her passion and astonishing competence. Though well-earned, she never sought attention or glory, content to uphold her values of earnest generosity and love.
She was exceptionally sharp but never pretentious, and always concerned with affairs of the world. A lover of art, music and the theater, she kept a well-admired home, while cultivating her own interests across many unexpected domains.
Connie's giving spirit was also personal, and those around her could scarcely mention a problem that she wouldn’t find practical ways to help with, even at significant effort. She was a caring mother and mentor who forged familial ties with nothing held back, extending them also to some deeply cherished, informal additions. Her light shone in all directions without judgment, and we are all infinitely better for it.
Charitable contributions in her honor may be made to:
The Innocence Project
https://www.innocenceproject.org
40 Worth Street, Suite 701
New York, NY 10013
(212) 364-5340
a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization which she supported and favored dearly for years.
She will be missed beyond measure. Let us uphold Connie's memory as a guide, that we may carry forward her legacy in ourselves. A memorial service is being planned, with details to be announced soon.
Above all, Connie’s life was one of service — from her time as a New York City public school teacher, to her admirable career in City government and the non-profit sector, she was respected for her passion and astonishing competence. Though well-earned, she never sought attention or glory, content to uphold her values of earnest generosity and love.
She was exceptionally sharp but never pretentious, and always concerned with affairs of the world. A lover of art, music and the theater, she kept a well-admired home, while cultivating her own interests across many unexpected domains.
Connie's giving spirit was also personal, and those around her could scarcely mention a problem that she wouldn’t find practical ways to help with, even at significant effort. She was a caring mother and mentor who forged familial ties with nothing held back, extending them also to some deeply cherished, informal additions. Her light shone in all directions without judgment, and we are all infinitely better for it.
Charitable contributions in her honor may be made to:
The Innocence Project
https://www.innocenceproject.org
40 Worth Street, Suite 701
New York, NY 10013
(212) 364-5340
a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization which she supported and favored dearly for years.
She will be missed beyond measure. Let us uphold Connie's memory as a guide, that we may carry forward her legacy in ourselves. A memorial service is being planned, with details to be announced soon.