Zachary Paul Plonsky passed away on July 16, 2025, at the age of 34, following a struggle with depression.
Born on June 18, 1991, Zachary Plonsky was a competitive archer from Wisconsin who made a significant impact in the U.S. archery scene.
He was known for his precision in both indoor and 3D archery formats and has competed in major events, such as the Vegas Shoot.
Moreover, he competed nationally, earning recognition in events like the West Town Archery tournament in Wisconsin.
Over the course of that time, he won a $10,000 shootoff on Day 1 of the 2024 edition.
As of July 14, 2025, Zachary Plonsky held a World Archery ranking of 686.
Zach Plonsky Stepped Away From Professional Archery As He Battled The Growing Weight Of Depression!
Zach Plonsky, a skilled archer from Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, had been quietly battling depression for an extended period.
While he remained active in the archery community and was known for his dedication, those close to him later revealed that he had struggled internally for years.
The previous year, he walked away from professional archery shoots not out of defeat, but to focus on his mental health and his family.
Plonsky shared:
I really need to focus on my mental health and setting up my family for a successful future.
Despite stepping back from elite competition, Zach remained steadfast in his role as a mentor and ambassador:
I still plan to do my ‘job’ as an ambassador for the sport. I still want to help everybody, especially with some of these great products. I will never give up helping the youth Archers because being around them brings joy to my heart that is hard to beat.
In the days leading up to his passing on July 16, 2025, Zach’s condition reportedly worsened, though many were unaware of the depth of his suffering.
His death was ultimately attributed to complications related to depression.
In the wake of his passing, Zach’s family and the wider archery community are mourning deeply.
His father, Mike Plonsky, expressed profound grief over the sudden loss, describing Zach as a loving son and a dedicated father to his two young children.
He further said:
Yesterday we lost Zachary Plonsky to depression. Zach was not only my 1st born child but 1 of my best friends. The family is all in shock, we will be posting an official obituary, and funeral arrangements are to come. I would assume it will be one in Waupun. We will be setting up 2 memorial funds for donations in his 2 children’s names. Please share this post with his friends. PLEASE at this point do not reach out to me, I am struggling with this situation. Thank you all for being there.
Zachary Paul Plonsky 6-18-1991 – 7-16-2025
Additionally, one of his best friends, who had known Zach for 12 years, paid a heartfelt tribute to him.
A memorial fund is being established to support his two children. Although his life was cut short early, Zach Plonsky left behind a lasting legacy and a deep passion for archery.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Zachary Paul Plonsky‘s family, friends, and well-wishers.
Rest In Peace, Legend!
In Case You Didn’t Know
- In 2023, Zach posted a perfect score of 600 with 120 Xs in the Pro Male Freestyle category at the Wisconsin Archery Alliance Indoor Pro Am.
- He clinched first place in the Open Class during the Northeast Wisconsin 3D Archery Tour.
