In memoriam: Mark Zwilsky

Mark Zwilsky, the founder of Potomac Metals, headquartered in Sterling, Virginia, died Wednesday, Dec. 21, at the age of 64 in his home in Leesburg, Virginia, from liver cancer.

The Zwilsky family

He was born July 3, 1958, to Klaus and Roberta (Bobbie) Zwilsky in Boston. According to the obituary provided by his family, Zwilsky was known as a troublemaker throughout his childhood in Montgomery County, Maryland, taking pride in the fact that he was asked to leave Churchill High School prior to graduating. After earning his GED, he attended Greenville Technical Institute.

Zwilsky married his wife of early 30 years, Mary, April 30, 1993. They raised three children, Eric Zwilsky, Sarah Zwilsky and Jeremy Wong, who Mark enjoyed watching excel in sports and, later, in business and parenthood. His family says Zwilsky also enjoyed spoiling his grandchildren: Max Zwilsky, Casen Zwilsky, Julia Wong, Quinn Zwilsky, Russell Wong, Alice Meador and Charlotte Wong.

He founded Potomac Metals Inc. in 1996 “on a hope and a prayer,” as his family says, leasing a small warehouse. He had only two employees. During his 25 years of leadership, Zwilsky expanded his company to nine locations and more than 125 employees.

He spent his free time traveling in his RV, enjoying his retirement by visiting national parks, historical landmarks and the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

His family says, “Mark was a hero to many. He is a true American dream success story. Mark was loved by everyone and will be greatly missed. His legacy will live on forever in his children, grandchildren and Potomac Metals.”

In lieu of flowers, the Zwilsky family would prefer a donation to Loudoun Hunger Relief at www.loudounhunger.org.

Funeral arrangements have been planned for Friday, Dec. 23, at noon at Temple Beth Ami, 14330 Travilah Rd, Rockville, Maryland, 20850. Interment will be 2 p.m. at Judean Gardens, 16225 Batchellors Forest Rd., Olney, Maryland, 20832.