Michael Len Zinken

Michael Len Zinken, age 59, of Wyoming passed away unexpectedly at his home on Friday, October 21, 2022. Mike was born on April 24, 1963 in Wyoming, MI and was the son of Leonard Zinken and Mary Zinken, John Watkins and Martha Watkins. Mike was paralyzed in 1971, at the age of 8 years old, when his family's vehicle was tragically struck by a drunk driver. Being told he wouldn’t live past 20 years old only made him fight harder every day. He loved spending time with family and friends and supporting them in any way that he could. Mike will be remembered for his caring spirit, deep inner strength, and enthusiasm. Mike had a natural gift of making anyone smile, even in the most trying of times. From the biggest hugs to offering a listening ear to help you find the positives in any situation. Mike loved his job as a greeter at Meijer for over 20 years, making many friends along the way. Mike was preceded in death by his parents Leonard Zinken and Mary Zinken, John Watkins and Martha Watkins, brothers Larry Zinken and Robert Zinken, sisters Pamala Zinken, Terri Lynn Zinken and Lisa Zinken. Mike will be greatly missed by his siblings: Deb (Roger) Hardy, Sandy Miller, Rick (Lisa) Zinken, and Rick Russell. Nieces and nephews: Ami (Jason) Hardy, Andi Hardy, Angie (Casey) Dout, Dan Russell, Chris (Samantha) Russell, Marissa Zinken, Emma Zinken, Anna Zinken and Ethan Zinken. Many great nieces and nephews: Shea, Tyler, Cade, Brody, Braden, Derek, Abbigail, Aiden, Liam, Alexandria, Sydney, and Kellan. His foster family, the Simons, and many other extended family members who all called him Uncle Mike. Memorial services will be held at 11am on Saturday, November 12th at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4031 Clyde Park Ave SW, Wyoming, with Pastor Kevan Grinwis officiating. Burial will be held at Resurrection Cemetery at a later date. Relatives and friends may meet with the family from 10-11 am at the funeral home before services. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Downtown Christian Church, 818 Butterworth St SW, Grand Rapids MI, 49504.