Obituary of Donald Zappavigna

Donald Steven Zappavigna, age 64, of Monroe passed away unexpectedly at 4:45am, Friday, July 25, 2008 at Mercy Memorial Hospital in Monroe. Donald was born on November 17, 1943 in Monroe, Michigan from the union of the late Fred Zappavigna and the late Margaret (Mexico) Zappavigna. He was a 1962 graduate of Monroe Catholic Central High School. Donald had been married to Sue Sharp. For the past 29 years he has made his home with Judy Stanfill. Donald enjoyed collecting watches, lighters, deer, and eagles. He enjoyed the outdoors by bicycling and walking. His favorite sport was football and his favorite team was the Chicago Bears. He was also an avid Red Wings fan. He enjoyed NASCAR and he idolized Dale Earnhart Sr. and Dale Earnhart Jr. Donald also enjoyed music and would list Bob Seger as his favorite musician. He was adored and will sadly be missed by his grandchildren. Donald worked in maintenance and security for many years. He was employed by Charlotte Arms Apartments in Monroe, and he had also worked for the Monroe Wastewater Treatment Plant in maintenance. Donald worked at the Enrico Fermi Nuclear Power Plant and for the Sisters Servants of The Immaculate Heart of Mary Mother House performing security. He retired in 1990. He is survived by his life partner: Judy Stanfill of Monroe; two daughters: Cheryl Stanfill of Monroe; Kim (Robert) Swihart of Monroe; five adoring grandchildren: Christopher Stanfill, Travis Stanfill, Shaelyn Stanfill, Jasmine Stanfill, and Jett Swihart; loving friends: Lila (Charles) Jennings of Monroe; and their children: J.C. Jennings, Mercedes Jennnings, and McKayla Jennings; and Donald's beloved cat TITI. Family and Friends may gather Monday; August 4, 2008 from 9:30am until a Celebration of His Life at 10:00am at the Mausoleum of the Risen Christ at St. Joseph Cemetery, 909 North Monroe Street, Monroe. Burial will follow in the cemetery. The Reverend Milton Jackson pastor of New Beginnings Ministries of Romulus, Michigan will officiate. Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street, Frenchtown Township, (734) 384-5185 was entrusted with his arrangements. For those desiring memorial donations are suggested to the family. Online words of inspiration and comfort may be sent to the Merkle website at www.merklefuneralservice.com and then selecting the Life Stories page.