Michael "Mike" Joseph Zezeski

Michael “Mike” Joseph Zezeski

Michael “Mike” Joseph Zezeski, age 68, of Mechanicsburg, PA., passed away on January 30, 2022, after battling cancer for 3 years. Born on February 3, 1953, he was the son of the late Walter and Elnora Cavanaugh Zezeski. Mike is preceded in death by his sister, Michele Cooper and his English bulldog, Smasher.

Mike is survived by his wife of 44 years, Debra (Festino) Zezeski and son, Ryan Patrick Zezeski of Steamboat Springs, CO.  Also surviving are sisters: Donna Kaplan and husband, Barry, of Steamboat Springs, CO; Sandy Materna and husband, Al, of Scott Township, Molly Shook of Clarks Summit; and brothers:  Joseph Zezeski of Scranton and Patrick Zezeski of Scranton; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Mike graduated from Penn State University with a Civil Engineering degree. He put his knowledge to great use for 40 years at Maryland State Highway Administration. He started in Lighting Design and worked his way up to developing and leading Maryland’s CHART program. Mike loved his work and developed deep friendships with his staff and co-workers.  Mike had a passion for nature and the outdoors. In his younger years he hunted and fished with his cousin, Tim Cavanaugh, and long-time friend, Gerald “Fab” Fabricatore. Mike turned to golf and had many happy memories playing golf with his father, son, brothers, Bill Walsek and the Tundra group, as well as his neighbors George Knoll and Ralph Harkins. Even through his illness, Mike continued fishing with his cousin Tim who was like a brother to Mike and with his TOA golf buddies.  Mike loved to drive across the country to see Ryan. On the way, he would camp out, fish, and enjoy all that nature had to offer.  Mike was multi-talented. He knew all about lighting, electrical work, and carpentry. In their Maryland home, he constructed an outdoor deck as well as a bedroom, bathroom, and family room for his son. He did all kinds of projects for his wife, son, family and friends.  Mike loved to play Shanghai with his family. He always seemed to win in card games and was often teased as to whether he was cheating.  One characteristic of Mike was his smile. It was his smile that made Deb fall in love with him at first sight.

All are welcome to join Mike’s family at his gathering of family and friends on Saturday, February 5, 2022 from 2:00 p.m. until time of service at 3:00 pm at Farm 1840, 101 State Road, Mechanicsburg, PA. Mike’s family invites everyone to join them for a time of food and fellowship after the service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions of Mike’s life can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, www.StJude.org/Donate.

Mike’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral Home & Crematory in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421.  Read Mike’s full obituary, view his memorial video and portrait, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign his official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.