Our Master Smith, Maciej Zakrzewski, made his first knife at only 10 years old. Imported from Poland, via Argentina, he came to America during the Holocaust in Poland and started with a shop in Massachusetts. After a brief move to Georgia, he settled into the Finger Lakes District of New York in a small town called Spencer in 1989.

Zak found his niche in Blacksmithing and making stage combat weapons for over 50 years. He went from just himself to a shop of only 9 employees, built by only word of mouth. There has been many times when Zak would restock on Saturday nights while the small town of Spencer was sound asleep, and during those times was when he found the music in the steel.

Starfire can be seen and heard on stages, films, fields of battle, renaissance faires, and in backyards acrost the country. With no edge, point, or intention of doing any true harm, they are considered stage props; used by Theatrical Groups, Jousters, as costuming, or for just a show piece.

Today, as Starfire Creations continues we will do "business as usual" while we find our new "normal" as Zak sails the skies, while his Legacy lives on.

"Zak" was a very impactful member of community and outreach, and any condolences would be frowned upon him. He would want each and everybody to spend that time in trying to make your own community better rather than sobbing for him.

He was a great leader in his venture and wishes everyone would do the same for there small town communities.

He would want condolences sent to your local community, or churches in his respects. Zak had a high compassion for protecting the environment, and wildlife. He would very much appreciate that more than anything.

Forever and always "Zak" will Sail the Skies watching over his Starfire community. His Legacy will live on with Starfire as we conduct business as usual, while the Starfire Family finds there new "Normal."

Zak will be greatly missed, and God Speed....