2026 -- H 8257

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LC006060

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     STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2026

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H O U S E   R E S O L U T I O N

EXPRESSING DEEPEST CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF MICHAEL D. ZARUM

     Introduced By: Representatives Shekarchi, Blazejewski, McNamara, Bennett, Place,
Hopkins, Shanley, Fellela, Ajello, and Diaz

     Date Introduced: March 10, 2026

     Referred To: House read and passed

     WHEREAS, It is with profound sadness that this House has learned of the passing of

Michael D. Zarum, a lifelong resident of Warwick, who died on March 3, 2026, at Rhode Island

Hospital following injuries sustained in a pedestrian accident on Warwick Avenue; and

     WHEREAS, On the evening of February 25, 2026, at approximately 8 p.m., Warwick

police responded to a motor vehicle crash involving Mr. Zarum near 1222 Warwick Avenue, in

the area of Planet Fitness, where he was struck by a southbound sedan while crossing the

roadway; and

     WHEREAS, Police determined that speed, impairment, and distracted driving did not

appear to be contributing factors, with the driver remaining at the scene and fully cooperating

with the investigation; and

     WHEREAS, Michael was born in the City of Providence, the son of the late Joel and

Marjorie Zucker, and the dear brother of Ella Zarum. He attended Christopher Rhodes

Elementary School, Aldrich Junior High School, and Pilgrim High School; and

     WHEREAS, He earned a degree in civil engineering from the University of Rhode Island

and a master’s degree from Northeastern University; and

     WHEREAS, Michael worked in civil engineering on the Boston Orange Line extension

and later for Raytheon and Oracle in the Silicon Valley before returning to Warwick to support

his family and remain in his hometown; and

     WHEREAS, Michael was a lifelong advocate for the environment and civic engagement,

serving for nine years on the Warwick Land Trust and for fifteen years with the Buckeye Brook

Coalition, where he led public efforts including the construction and operation of a deicing

stormwater treatment facility at T.F. Green International Airport and the implementation of an

air-quality monitoring program; and

     WHEREAS, Known by fellow community members as an “environmental superhero,”

Michael actively participated in municipal meetings, provided input on state and Warwick

legislation, and worked tirelessly to safeguard open spaces, protect Buckeye Brook, ensure the

airport adhered to strict pollution standards, and address environmental concerns affecting all

Warwick residents; and

     WHEREAS, Michael obtained his pilot’s license at age sixteen, enjoyed Rhode Island’s

beaches and natural environments, and treasured time spent with friends and family in his

community; and

     WHEREAS, Michael will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and all

who had the privilege of knowing him, and his legacy of environmental stewardship and civic

dedication will continue to inspire residents of Warwick; now, therefore be it

     RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby

expresses its deepest condolences on the passing of Michael D. Zarum, acknowledges the tragic

circumstances of his death, and extends sincere sympathy to his family and loved ones during this

time of sorrow; and be it further

     RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is respectfully requested to

transmit duly certified copies of this resolution to the family of Michael D. Zarum.

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LC006060

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