Roger Zwarycz 1952-2009

It is my sad duty to inform you of the untimely death on 12th January 2009 of member Roger Zwarycz, aged 56, from Long Eaton Nottingham.

Roger had been a member of ACWS for over 30 years, been commanding officer of 32nd Virginia, Battalion Commander, Confederate Army Commander (1997-2000), and latterly a Civilian Sutler. He has made many a costume and tent for many members over the many years of loyal service to ACWS.

He was a contemporary of mine. We were both promoted to Sergeant and then Lieutenant of our respective companies at the same time. He also suffered from heart and diabetes problems in recent years and had been under medication for these, never really getting to grips with these health issues which, we believe, ultimately claimed his life.

I never heard Roger say an unkind word about anyone. He was always willing to tell you one of his legendary stories and share his home brewed wine and beer.

"We shall meet and we shall miss him. There will be one Vacant Chair."

Mike Bussey, Chairman & Webmaster

"What I shall always remember about Roger."

His early morning call -that guttural cough to clear his lungs before his first cigarette.

His welcoming smile and Captain Pugwash personification.

Not being allowed to pass his tent (either when we were Confederates or recently as Union) without being called in for a chat, ciggy and at night time a drop of some- thing special and a quick game of cards. Just a quick chat inevitably ended up a couple of hours whilst we put the world to rights or reminisced about members/days gone by.

When we were confederates if Martin 'went missing' there was a sure bet he was warming himself by the fire in Rogers' awning.(more likely having a ciggy and/or playing cards). His personality was as jolly as his BIG LOVEABLE FACE and I for one will miss his shouts of ' Where's my cuddle then?!!!!

God bless you Roger.

It was a pleasure and privilege to have known you.

Angela Cross, 2nd US Artillery Battery B

The above articles first appeared in the ACWS Newsletter, Winter 2009