Mr. Michael J. Zasa, 55, of Utica, passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at the Katherine Luther Residential Health Care and Rehabilitation Center in Clinton, with his loving family by his side.

     Michael was born in Utica on March 14, 1970, the son of Rocco and Carol (Burns) Zasa. He was raised in Utica and was a graduate of Utica Senior Academy (formerly Proctor High School). He continued his education at St. John’s University in New York City, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. Michael later pursued further theological studies at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago while discerning a vocation as a missionary with the Scalabrini Fathers. During that time, he served his Novitiate year in Mexico and spent time in Tijuana, assisting with work in the orange groves and serving the local community.

     Michael dedicated more than 30 years of his life as a Theology and Spanish teacher at Notre Dame High School in Utica. Throughout his distinguished career, he was not only a respected educator but also a trusted mentor and confidant to the countless students whose lives he touched and helped shape. A devout and active member of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish in Utica, Michael faithfully served his parish community as a Lector, Eucharistic Minister, and member of the Liturgical Committee. He was also a proud member of the Mt. Carmel Society and, together with his dear friend John Reale, co-chaired the St. Mary of Mt. Carmel Festival for two years. Michael had a love for travel, cared deeply for God’s smallest creatures, feeding every animal in his yard and often offering them safe shelter and especially enjoyed sharing good food and fellowship with family and friends.

     Michael is survived by his three brothers, Joseph Zasa, Patrick Zasa and his wife, Margherita and Rocco Zasa; his cherished nephews and nieces, Rocco Zasa, III, and his fiancée Noelle Arcuri, Patrick (Kelly) Zasa, Jr., Mitchell (Shannon) Zasa and Isabella Zasa; one adored great niece and three adored great nephews, Riley Zasa, Patrick Zasa, III, Rocco Zasa, IV and Joseph Arcuri as well as numerous cousins. He was predeceased by his parents, Rocco and Carol.

     Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to Michael’s Memorial Mass of Christian burial on Monday, March 16, 2026 at 10:00 AM at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, 648 Jay St., Utica. The family will greet visitors at the conclusion of Mass. He will be laid to rest with his parents in St. Agnes Cemetery in Utica at the convenience of his family.

     In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Michael J. Zasa Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Notre Dame Junior Senior High School, 2 Notre Dame Lane, Utica, NY 13502.

     Michael’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff of the Lutheran Home for the compassionate care and kindness shown to him. They also wish to offer a special thank you to the faculty, staff, and students of Notre Dame Junior Senior High School for the love, support, and many years of friendship they shared with Michael.

To view Michael's Funeral Mass online go to:

https://www.youtube.com/@st.maryofmountcarmelblesse1703/streams