This 2-inch memorial coin honors the life and legacy of Kalamazoo Public Safety Officer Eric Zapata. This coin was originally pressed as a 1.5 inch coin for the family and co-workers of Officer Zapata following his death in 2011. It was no longer available for re-order.
We are honored to work with Eric's mother Connie for the re-pressing of this coin. It's been made a little larger for increased detail. We've provided the family with a fresh set and made the rest available for sale in our gift shop. Per their request, all proceeds will be donated to the KDPS Spouse Group to assist other Kalamazoo officers and their families.
------Eric's Obituary from 2011
Eric was born in Ionia, MI the son of Adolfo and Connie (Casarez) Zapata. Eric served on the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety for 10 years. He was a member of Lightning Kicks where he enjoyed doing mixed martial arts and was a mentor to many children; and enjoyed the game of golf.
Eric was a family man. His smile and charm warmed the hearts of all who came in contact with him. His love and dedication to his job was matched only by his love and dedication to his children. Eric was a friend to all and a hero to many. He is now an angel and once again he is watching over us and protecting us from above. His loving memory is in our hearts and souls forever. May he rest in peace.
Eric is survived by his loving family which include his children, Alexis Taylor Zapata, Eric Anthony Zapata, Jacob Emiliano Zapata; his mother, Connie (Epifanio) Bernal; his father, Aldolfo (Susan) Zapata; sister and brother, Irene (Vance) Ferguson, Armando Lara and Heather VanWyck; nieces and nephew, Vance Connor Ferguson, Alexandria Ferguson, McKenzie Ferguson; and his fiancé, Kristina Moore.
