Constance Zick

Connie Zick, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025, at the age of 87. Surrounded by the love of her family, she left this world with the same grace and quiet strength that defined her life.

Connie was the devoted wife of Robert Zick for 63 beautiful years, and the proud mother of three sons: Edward (Julie) Zick of Montclair, VA; Michael (Emily) Zick of Carlisle, PA; and John (Lara) Zick of Chantilly, VA. She was a loving grandmother to seven, a great-grandmother to two, and a cherished aunt to a niece and nephew.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Claire Sturm; her brother, Carl Sturm Jr.; her sister, Macie Sturm; and her grandson, John Michael Zick. She is survived by her brothers, John Sturm and Richard Sturm (Marie Parker), both of Cottonwood, AZ.

Born in Baltimore in 1938, Connie cultivated a lifelong love of the outdoors. Whether tending her garden, walking wooded trails, or simply savoring a warm breeze, nature was her haven. She passed this deep appreciation on to her children, nurturing their sense of wonder and respect for the world around them.

A graduate of Georgetown University School of Foreign Service and the wife of a dedicated Army officer, Connie spent two decades raising her family across various military postings. She embraced every challenge and opportunity with resilience and grace, always creating a loving home wherever they landed. A natural caregiver and leader, she served as a Den Mother, Sunday School teacher, and mentor to many.

Later, Connie spent 20 years working for the IRS, where she made meaningful contributions in the computer programming department. Her intelligence, meticulous nature, and unwavering dedication earned her the admiration of colleagues and supervisors alike.

Yet it was in her role as mother and grandmother that Connie shone brightest. She was the heart of her family—the calming presence in chaos, the one who always knew what to say, and the one who could turn an ordinary day into a cherished memory. Her playful sense of humor was legendary, as captured in a family favorite: after seeing one son teasing another at dinner, she served him a perfect strawberry shortcake—with a secret filling of sour cream instead of whipped cream. It was Connie’s way—teaching with humor, always wrapped in love.

Her home was a sanctuary of kindness, laughter, and unconditional love. Connie had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel truly seen and deeply valued. Her words soothed, her smile uplifted, and her presence brought peace.

Connie was also a woman of adventure. Her travels took her across Europe, North and Latin America, and she embraced each journey with curiosity and joy. She returned from every trip with stories, insights, and a renewed zest for life—gifts she generously shared with family and friends.

Though she has left this earth, Connie’s spirit continues to live on in the hearts of those who loved her. Her legacy of compassion, wisdom, and joy will remain a guiding light to her family and all who were lucky enough to know her.

She will be dearly missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held close in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Connie’s name may be made to: American Liver Foundation, PO Box 299, West Orange, NJ 07052 (Liverfoundation.org) or Liver Cancer Research, Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins Medicine, 550 North Broadway, Suite 701B, Baltimore, MD 21205 (pathology.jhu.edu).