Steve Istvan Zamboki

Steve Zamboki, a cherished resident of Winston-Salem, passed away peacefully at his home on April 2nd, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Steve was born on April 18th, 1941, in Novi Sad, Serbia, to Hungarian parents, Istvan and Julia Zamboki. He lived his life as a proud Hungarian. His father died during World War II in 1944, and he was raised as the only child by his mother and extended family.

As a young adult, Steve trained as a tool maker, specializing in manufacturing molds and dies for the plastics industry. In 1962, driven by dreams of a better life, he left his home in Novi Sad for America. While waiting for a visa to immigrate to Canada, fate intervened. Steve met Marika Manda and her family at a refugee camp in Germany. They all eventually settled in Toronto, Canada, where Steve continued his work as a toolmaker and he and Marika were married on July 23, 1966.

Steve's ambition for a new life led him to answer an ad for a mold maker position in Winston-Salem, NC. After landing the job with Stratford Tool and Die, Steve, Marika, and their young family fulfilled his dream of moving to the United States in January 1974.

Steve and Marika's entrepreneurial spirit bloomed in 1981. They took a leap of faith and started their own successful tool and die company, Omni Tool, which thrived for the next 30 years. In 1986, they built their dream home, a place they cherished for 25 years.

Those who knew Steve will remember his larger-than-life personality, his infectious laugh, and his generous spirit, ensuring everyone left his gatherings feeling welcomed and well-fed. He was an avid fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs and enjoyed cultivating a beautiful yard and garden. He was also a long-time member of First Presbyterian Church in Winston-Salem.

Steve leaves behind a rich legacy of love and hard work. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Marika; his daughter, Sylvia and son-in-law Balint Gaspar; his son, Peter and daughter-in-law Christine; as well as his five grandchildren, Emily, Adam and Ella Gaspar and Beecher and Noah Zamboki. Steve was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren. He was deeply loved and cherished.

A celebration of Steve's life will be held on Friday, April 12th, 2024,at 4:00PM, at Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel with Rev. Francis Smith officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. 

Hayworth-Miller Silas Creek Chapel is assisting the Zamboki family.

Online condolences may be made at www.hayworth-miller.com