CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) - The City of Chicopee is mourning the passing of At-Large City Councilor Robert “Bob” Zygarowski, a dedicated public servant and beloved community member. Zygarowski, a Chicopee resident since 1975, devoted his life to the city he loved. A retired Chicopee Police Offic er, he served for 28 years, including time as the city’s first K9 officer and the first D.A.R.E. officer, a role in which he took immense pride. Local officials release statements on passing of former first lady of Massachusetts, Kitty Dukakis He retired from the police force in 2002 but remained committed to public service, winning election to the Chicopee Board of Aldermen and City Council in 2003, where he served until his passing. Courtesy of the City of Chicopee As a city councilor, Zygarowski prioritized public safety, serving as the longtime chairperson of the City Council’s Public Safety Subcommittee and holding the position of Vice President for multiple terms. His unwavering commitment to protecting the community earned him deep respect from colleagues and residents alike. Beyond his public service, Zygarowski was a devoted family man. He and his late wife, Patricia “Patti” (MacDonald) Zygarowski, were married for 40 years until her passing in January 2024. He cherished his two sons, Ryan and Sean, and his grandson, Jack. In honor of his service and dedication, the City of Chicopee has lowered flags to half-staff. “Our condolences go out to the Zygarowski family and to everyone whose life was touched by Bob,” city officials said in a statement. As a final tribute to his legacy, the city echoes one of Zygarowski’s guiding principles: “If you see something, say something.” Local News Headlines New brewery set to open this week in Bernardston Northampton police seeking help finding missing 70-year-old Lawmakers, advocates push for remote public meetings Figure skaters to honor those lost in DC plane crash at World Championships in Boston WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com. ...read more read less