Michael Anthony Zipfel, 80, passed away on April 23, 2026. He was born on April 15, 1946 in Defiance, Ohio. He married his high school sweetheart, Rita on June 25, 1966.

Mike was Valedictorian in 1964, and the last person ever to graduate from Jewell High School. After graduation and getting married, he enlisted in the Army. He felt a sense of duty to serve his country, so upon enlisting he volunteered for the Vietnam War. Mike served in the U.S. Army with the Americal Division, 44th Medical Brigade, 563rd Med Company as a Medical Corpsman from 1967-1868. He was based in Chu Lai, and traveled the length of South Vietnam from Saigon to Da Nang. Mike received several military awards and was honorably discharged.

Upon returning home, Mike graduated from Defiance College and became a 5th grade teacher at Defiance Middle School where he taught for 33 years. During that time, he touched the lives of many people in and out of the classroom. This includes his time at Camp Palmer where he shared with young people his love for fishing, firearm safety, and everything related to nature. He may have even been seen eating a worm.

During his time as a teacher, Mike also worked at Standard Oil alongside his brother, Steve, and did construction work, always willing to take on extra jobs to provide for his family.

After retiring from teaching, Mike became the assistant dog warden for Defiance County for 13 years. His love for animals made this a meaningful way to continue serving his community.

There wasn't anything Mike wouldn't do for his family. He spent much of his time with his children and grandchildren, especially enjoying meals together, sharing stories, and supporting them in all of their activities. Mike's love for the outdoors also included 20 years spent caring for his two Arabian horses, mowing his yard with pride, and simply enjoying time outside.

Mike was a hard worker whose actions reflected a deep sense of duty, courage, and commitment that remained an important part of his life.

Mike is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Rita (Egler); children, Elizabeth (Steven) Anders, Matthew Zipfel, and Anna (Weston) Haller, grandchildren; Riley (Bri), Olivia (Nic), Reid, Kaylee, Cole, Izzy, Ellie, Ivy, and great-granddaughter Hallie. Mike also leaves behind siblings, William, Sandy (Gary) Carnahan, Sue (Larry, deceased) Mekus, and Steve (Janet); sister-in-law, Ruby Egler; and brother-in-law, John Egler.

He was preceded in death by his parents Herbert and Marian (Partee) Zipfel.

Mike will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him. He will be remembered for his charisma, strength, laughter, tireless work ethic, and his deep love for family. His memory will live on in the lives he touched and the family he cherished.

Visitation will be held on Monday, April 27, 2026 from 3-8 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home South, Lawson-Roessner Chapel (1753 S. Clinton Street) in Defiance. A funeral service will be at 11:00 am on Tuesday, April 28th at the funeral home. He will be laid to rest in Evansport Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to a charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.

Michael Anthony Zipfel will be lovingly remembered and greatly missed.