Michelle Zarnick was a vibrant, unforgettable spirit

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michelle Eve Zarnick, lovingly known to many as "Mihell"; or to her younger sister, a "Podie-Butt". Born in Cleveland, OH on October 4, 1982, and residing in Roscoe, Illinois, Michelle left us far too soon on January 2, 2025. She was a vibrant and unforgettable spirit, embodied by her compassion, humor, humility, and love.

Michelle was a seasoned human resources consultant at Paylocity, a payroll software firm, where she utilized her knack for helping others. Prior to this, she had dedicated over a decade of her life to serving as an equine veterinarian technician, an accomplishment she wore with pride. Her love for animals was reflected in her actions and her dedication to their well-being. Michelle was also a gifted photographer, capturing the beauty of nature and landscapes with a keen eye and an artist's touch.

Before moving to Roscoe, Illinois, where she resided for the last two years, Michelle lived in various places, including West Olive, Michigan; Kentwood, Michigan; Grand Rapids, Michigan; Akron, OH; and Glendale Heights, IL. She carried pieces of each place with her, enriching her perspective and worldview. Michelle’s journey was not always easy, but she faced each challenge with grace, humor, and resilience.

She was an active member of the AMLA Lodge 9. As Annie Leibovitz once said, "'I'm more interested in being good than being famous." This quote embodies Michelle's spirit perfectly, as she was always ready to lend a helping hand, advocate for human rights, record a moment via photography, or simply bring laughter into a room with her wicked sense of humor.

Michelle is survived by her parents Ron and Ellen (Mentessi) Zarnick; sister and brother-in-law Erin "Eris" Zarnick and Zach Brundage. It's hard to forget someone who gave us so much to remember. She lived loud and loved deeply, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she met. Though she is no longer physically with us, her spirit lives on in the memories we shared, the laughter she incited, and the love she gave.

Her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched. In Michelle's memory, we encourage all who knew her to share their memories, stories, and photographs on her memorial page. Let's celebrate her life, her laughter, and the love she shared with us all. She will be greatly missed by many, but her legacy of kindness, compassion, humor, and love will live on forever.

Per Michelle's wishes, cremation rites to be accorded.  A private family celebration will be held.

Celebrations of Life will be held in Illinois and Ohio in the warmer months later this year.