"AJ and I were traveling together up to Ely, Minnesota and he asked if I would allow him to lay his head on my lap. I accepted his request and he said to me "Your legs are all bumpy. Is something wrong with them?" I said "They have always been like that." I greatly enjoyed AJ's company while on the Boundary Waters Trip. We had a lot of fun competition. AJ, someone else, and I were always the in the bow of the canoe, if we needed to get somewhere fast. I was sorry to hear about his death. I didn't even know my friend had died until I decided to look him up one day. I am forever grateful to AJ for allowing me to be in his life if only for a little while. "
In loving memory of
Andrew "AJ" James Zdeblick
December 31, 1984 - September 4, 2008
Middleton: AJ passed away peacefully of natural causes. His death was sudden and unexpected, and came at a time when he had matured into a fine young man. AJ was disabled with autism, but had worked hard to achieve independence. Many of you in the community knew AJ -- from Crestwood Elementary, from Kromerey Middle School and Middleton High School; from Copp's in Middleton where he worked, and through special Olympics and a variety of Madison special needs social groups. Everyone who met AJ loved him. He had a gentle spirit, an unrestrained laugh, and an insight into his own disabilities that made all those who met him smile. He taught our family a great deal about the simple pleasures of life, enjoyed at a slower pace. He also gave us a deep understanding of how living with and overcoming disabilities broadens our compassion and widens our tolerance. AJ loved watching football, playing with his pets, skiing, art classes, and hanging with Max and his friends. AJ had three siblings -- Julie, his best and closest advocate, John, and Maddie. AJ was preceded in death by Julie...now they are together again. We wish to thank all of you in the community who helped AJ through the years for your gifts -- they made a difference. There will be a family only service this week, followed by a memorial service later this year. In lieu of flowers, we request that donations be sent (c/o Cress Funeral Home 3610 Speedway Rd., Madison, WI 53705) to the Edgewood College Cutting Edge Program for the disabled. Tom and Catherine thank you. Peace --AJ