The Michel Family

MICHEL, Zachary Stephen, 40, of Springboro passed into Glory on September 20th, 2018, surround by family in the comfort of home.

Zach was born on March 2nd, 1978 in Wilmington to Steve and Debbie Michel. He attended Ridgeville Christian School K-12 and spent many summers at the farm with his grandparents, siblings, and cousins. Throughout high school, Zach was an athlete and played tennis, soccer and basketball. He took Sarah (Keller) Michel as his lovely wife on April 7th, 2007 in Lebanon. Zach worked 18 years as a certified automotive diesel mechanic and then switched careers to follow his passion of dog behavior and training. For the past 3 years, he worked at Bigger Road Veterinary Clinic in their dog training and day care. Zach was a devoted Cleveland sports fan; Indians, Browns and Cavilers. He enjoyed watching, rooting for, and attending games whenever possible. He was a rugged outdoorsman, enjoying the fresh air and God’s creation. He could be found taking the dogs to local trails and dog parks, backpacking with buddies at the Red River Gorge, camping, playing sports and recently taking his oldest son fishing and to the park.  Zach’s love of God and passion to see others living in the freedom of Christ, fueled his heart towards outreach and an overall approach to living a life where he loved and accepted others. His favorite scripture passage was 1 Corinthians 16: 13-14. He was extremely active at his home church. His open heart of worship and service to others was evidenced by his involvement with the set up and tear down team, men’s group, and outreach events. You could always find him ready to lend a helping hand or arms outstretched for a big bear hug. 

Zach is survived by his wife of 11 years, Sarah; sons Emerson (21 months) and Everett (5 months); parents Stephen and Debbie Michel of Springboro; siblings Emmy (Joe) Maggard of Middletown, Mandy (Dwaine) Coffman of Waynesville, Becky Michel of Springboro; and nieces and nephew Ellie and Marissa Maggard and Cody and Olivia Coffman. Zach is preceded in death by an infant sister, Angel; maternal grandparents, Elmer and Winnie Livingston; paternal grandparents, Charles and Margaret Michel.