Michael (Mike) Joseph Zuffa passed away Friday, May 16, 2025 in Milwaukee, WI. He was 78.
The youngest son of M.J. (Slim) and Anne (Hlavacek) Zuffa, Mike was born on November 14, 1946 in Kenosha, where he chose to set down roots. He graduated from St. Joseph High School and worked at the Brat Stop before serving in the USMC from 1966-1970, where he became affectionately known as Zoof. A proud Marine, Mike preferred a “Semper Fi” over a “thank you” for his service.
On November 16, 1968, upon returning from Vietnam, he married Kathleen (Kathy) Fischbach. Their son, Michael, was born in 1974 and they traveled with as a family to many places in the U.S. Mike worked for Johnson Controls for 42 years before returning to the Brat Stop where it all began, rarely missing a shift even for vacation.
Mike’s favorite vacation destination was Aruba. A couple of days on a Caribbean cruise or drinking Coronas with friends on his favorite island brought a ready smile to his tanned face and much laughter. He was always willing to buy another round, whether vacationing or at home.
His friends and family will miss his generosity of spirit, his willingness to care for others, and his capacity for living life fully. Mike took care of other people. He made sure everyone’s tips were fair and took on extra work without asking. On Thanksgiving he carved the turkey and helped with the family tradition of steaming dumplings. He took charge and took orders from his beloved sisters. Most importantly, he cared for his wife and home, even if it was simply holding her hand to help her cross the street or opening the car door.
Mike is survived by his wife Kathy; son Michael (Rachel) Zuffa; sister Pat Murray; sister Kathy (Richard) Frederick; numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, great-nephews, great-nieces; and one much-loved granddog, Pax. He is preceded in death by his parents, Slim and Anne, and his older brother Thomas.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Mike will be celebrated on Friday May 23rd, 2025, at 11:00AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. (7307-40th Avenue or corner of 73rd street and 39th Avenue) Visitation with the family will be on Friday at the church from 9:30AM until the time of mass. Private burial will follow at St. George Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorials to the family would be appreciated.
