Thomas Zapara, a visionary business owner, generous philanthropist, and cherished friend of Loma Linda University Health, passed away on June 16 at the age of 100. His life was marked by a legacy of innovation, faith, and unwavering generosity.
From Humble Beginnings to Business Success
Born on a farm in North Dakota to Ukrainian parents in an Adventist home, Tom Zapara's journey began with humble roots. He and his wife, Violet, also a North Dakota native, met in college in Southern California and married in 1947. Their entrepreneurial spirit was ignited on their kitchen table, where they laid the foundation for what would become a groundbreaking business.
Tom served as an Army medic in Europe during World War II, earning the nickname "Zee," which later inspired the name of their company, Zee Medical Products. Applying their values of hard work, persistence, passion for excellence, and faith in God, they built the company into a leader in Industrial First Aid. Eventually, they sold Zee Medical Products to McKesson Corporation and went on to establish Life Support Products, which they also successfully sold.
A Legacy of Generosity and Philanthropy
The Zaparas' business success was matched by their philanthropic spirit. They were steadfast supporters of numerous Seventh-day Adventist ministries, healthcare organizations, and educational institutions. Their alma mater, La Sierra University, benefited greatly from their generosity, notably with the establishment of the Tom & Vi Zapara School of Business, which opened in 2013.
At Loma Linda University Health, the Tom & Vi Zapara Rehabilitation Pavilion opened in 2010 on the East Campus. This 30,000-square-foot facility, offering 24 rehabilitation inpatient beds, was the first of its kind in the Inland Empire, providing a natural environment and social support to reduce environmental stressors for patients. The Zaparas also supported the development of the EXSEED program, an annual summer on-campus initiative providing continuing education to science teachers from Seventh-day Adventist primary and secondary schools.
Recognition and Enduring Influence
In recognition of their contributions, Tom and Vi Zapara were honored by Loma Linda University in 2018, with both Thomas and Vi receiving a Doctor of Humanitarian Service degree. He also served on the Loma Linda University Health Board of Trustees for 25 years, continuing as an Emeritus Board member.
The couple has always given God credit for the blessings they enjoyed, and they considered it a privilege as partners with God to bless others through their generosity. They encouraged people to give to others, regardless of financial capacity, and to God, who made everything and deserves “your life, your service, your thanks, and your appreciation,” Tom said at the 2018 ceremony.
A Life Well Lived
Tom Zapara's legacy is one of profound impact, both through his business achievements and his philanthropic efforts. He is survived by his wife, Violet, their two daughters, five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. His life serves as an enduring example of the power of hard work, faith, and generosity, inspiring countless others to follow in his footsteps and continue his mission of giving back to the community.
Tom Zapara’s legacy will be remembered for generations to come, a testament to a life well lived and a mission fulfilled.