Veteran CE industry rep Steven Zaboji, 76, of Balaton Marketing was killed tragically in a small plane crash on October 7. In addition to running Balaton since 1972, Zaboji was a devoted pilot and flight instructor. He also ran Virtual-Representative, a newsletter service for the CE industry.
A consummate professional, Zaboji founded Balaton Marketing (named after the largest lake in his native country, Hungary) in Sterling, Va., after a nine-year tenure in the retail audio industry. For the last 40 years, Balaton has been associated with the highest quality, limited distribution products, as exemplified by Yamaha Electronics which has anchored the company since 1975. Other lines included Russound, James Loudspeaker, Klipsch, Sennheiser, Soundcast and Audioengine.
Virtual-Representative was started in 2003 as a simple software system for integrators to create their own newsletters. Zaboji had a good working relationship with CE Pro, often sharing our content for the newsletter.
According to news reports, Zaboji was towing a glider in his Piper PA-25aircraft when the plane experienced unspecified problems and crashed. The glider had disconnected and landed safely.
Thoughts and prayers from family, friends and colleagues have poured into his facebook page.
Daughter Cameron Zdancewicz writes:
I was truly blessed to have him as a father and friend. He was one of the most incredible people I have ever met. A loving husband, amazing father, proud grandfather, and generous and loyal friend. He had a beautiful life, pursuing his passions every single day, and always looking for opportunities to help and mentor others. Whether it was in business, aviation, travel, writing, or music, he had a passion for people and learning. I am forever grateful to have had his influence, love, and support in my life.
Please keep my family in your thoughts & prayers as we go through this difficult time.
Fellow rep Fred Carrico writes:
Today I was thrown to learn that one of the kindest, wisest individuals in CE had died doing what he loved. Steven Zaboji was a friend and mentor to many of us in the industry. I had the pleasure to learn and then work with and for Steve during my career. He taught me every day and always had my back during the 10 years I worked at Balaton Marketing. Over our 40 year friendship, I witnessed a true gentleman and scholar in action. He was a tremendous example of a Godly man in my humble opinion. My prayers are with the beautiful family he leaves behind! I know where he is now and I'm grateful to be confident of that reality. Rest In Peace Steve.
CE Pro extends our deepest condolences to Zaboji's extended family.
