MSgt. Michael E. Zacha

With profound love and gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the peaceful passing of Master Sergeant Michael E. Zacha Sr. on July 3, 2026, at the age of 79. Surrounded by the love of his family and strengthened by the grace of the Sacraments of the Catholic Church, Mike entered peacefully into the eternal presence of the Lord. Born on April 15, 1947, in Effingham County, Illinois, Mike was the eldest of fourteen children born to Leroy and Leona Zacha. He was raised in Liberty Township and graduated from Beecher City Community High School. In June 1966, he answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force, serving honorably during the Vietnam War. During his distinguished 23-year military career, Mike rose to the rank of Master Sergeant (E-7) and served as an Aircraft Mechanic on multiple aircraft platforms. His assignments took him throughout the United States and overseas, including tours in Germany, Thailand, and South Korea. Throughout his military career, he was recognized with numerous Air Force medals and commendations for his dedicated service. Upon his honorable retirement from the United States Air Force in July 1989 at Edwards Air Force Base, California, Mike and his family settled in Arlington, Texas. He continued his career in aviation as an Aircraft Mechanic and Quality Controller with LTV Corporation, later Vought Aircraft Industries, and ultimately Triumph Aerostructures in Grand Prairie, Texas. After another 23 years of dedicated service to the aerospace industry, he retired on March 31, 2013. Across both his military and civilian careers, Mike devoted nearly five decades to supporting the defense and aerospace community with integrity, precision, and unwavering professionalism. In 1968, Mike married his devoted wife, Cheryl lovingly known as Cheri, and together they shared 48 years of marriage, building a loving home and raising their family. Through the joys and challenges of life, they created a legacy rooted in faith, devotion, hard work, and unconditional love for their children. Following Cheri’s passing, Mike was blessed with a beautiful second chapter in life when he married his cherished wife, Jocelyn, with whom he shared five wonderful, adventurous years of marriage. Together they made their home with Kamree in South Carolina, where they enjoyed years filled with love, laughter, and simple joys. Mike treasured time spent at the beach, attending concerts, embracing dance dad life, relaxing at home, and sharing life with the dogs he dearly loved. These years were a special blessing and brought him countless cherished memories. Above every accomplishment, Mike's greatest pride was his family. He was the caring father of Michael Jr. (Kathryn), Matthew (Hayley), Renee (Mark), Andrea (Derrick), Meghan (Christopher), and Kamree and Kamree. He was also the proud grandfather of 21 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. Mike was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Cheryl Zacha; his parents, Leroy and Leona Zacha; his siblings, John, Barbara, Ronald, Diana, Daniel, and Merita; and his grandchild, Liona Marie. "His master said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; enter into the joy of your master.'" Matthew 25:23 Mike's legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the nation he faithfully served, the faith he steadfastly professed, and the countless lives he touched through his quiet example of honor, humility, perseverance, and love.

MSgt. Michael E. Zacha

April 15, 1947 - July 3, 2026