Obituary: Thomas John Zieziul

Thomas John Zieziul (March 2, 1935 – November 28, 2024)

Thomas John Zieziul “checked out” (as he would put it) from this world on November 28, 2024. Tom was born on March 2, 1935, in Grand Rapids, Mich., to Matthew and Katherine (Bayko) Zieziul, the youngest of their five children and the only boy. He served as an altar boy at the Basilica of St. Adalbert and graduated from Union High School, a true product of the old westside of Grand Rapids. Tom lived a full and eclectic life, making his share of mistakes along the way, as we all do, some with more lasting repercussions than others. He traveled widely, living for periods of time in England and on an Israeli kibbutz, and defined himself as a writer and poet. Tom authored countless poems, participated in numerous poetry slams, and authored a children’s book called Sticky, which is about a Christmas tree that no one wanted. He made friends easily and loved nothing more than telling or hearing a great story, typically while sipping on a vodka (or, in his later years, gin) and tonic loaded up with wedges of lime and orange, strawberries, and mint. He loved all genres of music, from opera (Pavarotti being a favorite) to Leonard Cohen and beyond, and he remembered the lyrics to almost every song he ever heard. He was also an avid reader and fisherman until his eyes and legs gave way. While he treasured beautiful settings all over the globe, his favorite place was “the Farm” in Manchester, Mich., where he lived for over 30 years, tending gardens, riding his mower, picking asparagus and chestnuts, and feeding an array of cats.

Tom was married twice in addition to the 40-plus years spent with his partner, Kay Wozniak. He had five children, 10 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. He served as a loving pseudo-parent/grandparent to Lisa Wozniak, Kenny Simon, Bob Wozniak, Camille Bowman, Zach Simon, Ben Simon, Lily Wozniak, and Ryan Wozniak.

In addition to his parents, Tom was predeceased by his sisters, Virginia, Lorraine, Martha, and Rita. He leaves behind numerous nephews and nieces in addition to an array of friends, all of whom played important roles in his life and provided invaluable love and support during his final days.

A celebration of Tom’s life will take place at the Basilica of St. Adalbert, 654 Davis Ave NW, in Grand Rapids on Thursday, December 19, 2024, at 11am, followed by light refreshments. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Michigan League of Conservation Voters or your local Humane Society.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.