Marcos "Zap" Zapata's Obituary
Marcos A. “Zap” Zapata
April 16, 1959 – August 25, 2025
At 11:42 a.m. on Monday, August 25, 2025, Marcos A. Zapata—known to all simply as “Zap”—completed his mission on Earth and boldly went where no one has gone before.
Born in New York City to Sol and Adolofo Zapata, Zap spent much of his childhood in the Panama Canal Zone, where he ruled the roost as the apple of his mother’s eye. At 18, he set a course back to the United States and to Miami, where he began his journey at the University of Miami. Though books and academics were not his primary focus, Zap discovered his true calling in the vibrant orbit of campus life. He joined the bowling team, took a job at the University Center, and found his lifelong love for the U.
What began as a student adventure grew into a 41-year voyage of service. Zap dedicated his career to enhancing the college experience for generations of students, organizations, and colleagues. From the early days of the University Center to the thriving Student Center Complex of today, his fingerprints are etched into the very fabric of campus history.
Those who knew him will remember his cheerful “yello, yello” greeting, his willingness to stay until the mission was complete, and his genuine care for all crew members of our Cane family. Ever the dependable teammate, Zap exemplified the spirit of service and camaraderie, always ready with encouragement, support, and his warm smile.
With 66 orbits around the sun, Zap touched countless lives across multiple generations. His legacy is one of dedication, joy, and unwavering loyalty to the University of Miami community. Though his starship has now left this world, the light he shared continues to shine in the hearts of all who knew him.
May God bless him and welcome him home. Farewell, dear friend—may you rest in peace among the stars.
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