Michael Allyn Zender

Michael Allyn Zender, born on October 24, 1943, in Columbus, Georgia, passed away on October 15, 2026. Preceded by his parents Linus “Bud” Zender and Audrey “Kay” (Kuhn) Zender. He lived a full and active life, embracing every opportunity for adventure, connection, and creating lasting memories with friends and family.

Michael was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Known for his energy and enthusiasm for life, he rarely sat still for long. A passionate Ohio State fan, Michael enjoyed cheering on his Buckeyes and sharing that excitement with family and friends.

His many hobbies kept him and his beloved wife, Julie, busy throughout the years. Whether camping in the great outdoors, water skiing across a lake, carving through fresh snow on the ski slopes, biking, playing volleyball, or cruising the ocean, Michael embraced life's adventures with joy and determination. His love of activity was matched only by his love for family, and many of those adventures became treasured family memories.

Michael is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Julie (Johnson) Zender; his sister, Suzanne (Zender) Schreck; his children, Scott Zender and his wife Stephanie, Laura Hittesdorf and her husband Dan, Eric Zender, and Dawn Hogan and her husband Jeremy. He was a proud grandfather to Corbin and his wife Candace, Courtney, Sarah and her husband David, Nathan, and Dillon. He was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Emmett and Sutton, and is fondly remembered by his niece, Audrey.

Michael's legacy is one of living life to the fullest, embracing adventure, and cherishing time spent with family and friends. His warmth, enthusiasm, and humor and will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. The family encourages everyone to honor Mike's memory by spending time outdoors, cheering on their favorite team, and making memories with the people they love."

Service details:

A private family Celebration of Life will be held in Florida.