Michael Paul

Michael (Mike) Paul Zapatka, 69, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away on September 5, 2024, in his favorite chair. A celebration of life will be held at Pitch Pizza and Pub located at 2924 E. Sunshine, Springfield, MO., 1:00 – 4:00 p.m., Saturday, October 12, 2024.

Mike was the beloved son of Sally and Joseph Zapatka born on April 21, 1955, in Chicago, IL. where he lived until age 12 when he moved to Springfield, MO. in 1967. He is preceded in death by his father, Joseph, and survived by his mother, Sally Zapatka, two brothers, David and Steven (Victoria), two sisters, Judith (Timothy) and Debra, his daughter, Jennifer Eads (Chris), his son, Joseph and grandchildren Quentin, Joseph, Montana, Dakota, Arizona, and Angel as well as numerous uncles, aunts, and cousins.

Mike graduated from Glendale High School, Springfield, Missouri in 1974. He was well known for his Z-Lawn parking lot sweeping, landscaping, and lawn maintenance business which thrived throughout southwest Missouri for four decades.

Mike had a rare gift for making everyone around him feel comfortable and at ease. His humor, filled with clever quips and playful jabs, was always delivered with warmth, creating an atmosphere where laughter and camaraderie flourished. He was a steadfast friend and an unwavering supporter, often sacrificing his own comfort and sleep to be there for others.

His love for his family was boundless, especially for his son Joe, whom he cared for with profound devotion. He found immense joy in spending time with his daughter Jennifer and his grandkids, creating treasured memories that enriched their lives.

Mike's passions were as diverse as they were vibrant. He loved watching stock car races and frequented the casino, always enjoying the thrill of the moment. His green thumb transformed his backyard into a blooming paradise, with potted flowers flourishing like those in a nursery. Whether it was a hole-in-one on the golf course or a perfect game of bowling, Mike embraced life with spirited enthusiasm. His legacy is one of deep love, joy, and an infectious zest for living that touched everyone he knew.

He will fondly be remembered for his kindness, generosity, sense of humor and love of family. The world feels emptier without him.

In lieu of flowers donations to Special Olympics at: support.specialolympics.org.