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Light a Candle
My brother, Michael Richard Zysek, passed away Wednesday evening, April 6, 2026. Mike preferred living in Florida with the sun on his back and the ocean in sight. He moved back north to be near loved ones two years ago. While he was in a lot of pain, even prior to a cancer diagnosis, he found a lot of fulfillment in helping with projects, especially at the lake. It is no secret that Mike and I have always been polar opposites. But Mike respected my path in life and I did my best to accept his. The one thing we had in common was an engineering mindset which allowed us to sit side by side, pencils in hand, designing projects. Projects which were then built by the hands of Mike and my husband, Todd. For the last decade I’ve had the pleasure and frustration of watching them construct and fix trellises, decks, windows, stairs, my big beautiful pantry, etc. They cut, and drilled, and fought, and laughed and swore and formed a brotherly bond. Mike’s construction and carpentry skills were really quite impressive. Mike did not walk the straight and narrow, but he believed in God. I am thankful for all the times he was able to attend church with us. I know where he is now. Without a doubt. And I am honored God allowed me to be by Mike’s side holding his hand when he finally moved on to a far better, superior place. Since memorial plans will be held privately, those that wish to honor Mike’s legacy by donation can consider the following: Salvation Army – their men’s rehabilitation program was instrumental in Mike’s journey and faith for an entire year. GGARR – Gulfstream Guardian Angels Rottweiler Rescue – Mike believed in this advocacy through a loved one, and he had a heart for Rotti’s [his beloved; ‘Justice’, ‘Mercy’ and ‘Faith’] Mike reminded me often of how our mom would say, “I love you and like you” when putting us to bed. More beneficial than any monetary donation, and carrying more weight, choose to tell someone that needs to hear it, “I love you and like you” I will miss hearing the pride in his voice when saying, “my sister”, and calling his niece, Jo, “young lady” and hearing him reply to my husband with, “I love you too brother”. And I will miss feeling his immeasurable bliss talking about his beautiful children; Mikhail and Zariah. A special thank you to his friend Bill for opening his home to Mike. I will be forever grateful for your time and support the last two years. Consider your promise to look after Mike, fulfilled. A final thank you and condolence to every person, family and friend, that came along side Mike at any stage of his life. You know who you are, you know what he meant to you. God’s peace to you God’s peace to Mike Peace. Peace. Peace.
