IN MEMORIAM: JOHNNY ZAMRZLA ("JOHNNY Z")
1939-2025

WESTERN PACIFIC ROOFING CORPORATION - PALMDALE, CA

IRCC has just received the sad news of the passing of a great man, an industry changer and a good friend - Johnny Zamrzla ("Johnny Z"), at the age of 86.

John Upshaw (President, Executive Director IRCC 1986 – 2023) first introduced me to Johnny in 1998 and from that moment I knew I had a true ally in the roofing business.  He was the epitome of a gentle person but took every roofing matter to heart and if he could help you he would. However, he was tough as nails in the industry and never forget he was an advocate of free enterprise, entrepreneurialism and hard work. 

Others would agree that his professional accomplishments might overshadow his true heart, but he never let awards and accolades sway his work in the roofing trade or his work with roofing people.

Johnny aided the IRCC on the CAC Board discussions with the United Roofers and Water proofers updating the Minimum Industry Training Criteria. He also served on the RCAC Board for over 40 years and was inducted into its Hall of Fame in 1996. He helped form the Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA), entering its Hall of Fame in 1999. He also served as NRCA President, earning their highest honor—the J.A. Piper Award—in 1984, and held the presidency of both RCASC and RCAC three times.

In 1991, RCASC presented Johnny with its first “Award of Excellence,” which was later renamed in his honor.

Beyond roofing, Johnny was a devoted cattle rancher and rodeo advocate. The California Finals Rodeo once honored him with this tribute: “Thank you for making this world a better place!”

A wonderful man has left us, and we will all feel his loss. 

Lorelei Sweet Upshaw

Executive Director, IRCC