Michael George Zeazeas Jr.

Michael George Zeazeas Jr.

Mike was born on October 8, 1952, to Michael "Bud" and Donetta "Donnie" Zeazeas, in Portland, Oregon. Michael died at home surrounded by family and friends on April 26, 2026. Michael was preceded in death by his father, Mike, mother Donnie, sister Julie, brother Steven, and his dog Cossy. Michael leaves behind his Uncle Jerry, Aunt Judith, numerous cousins, his beloved dog Bianca and many friends. Michael was cared for by his loving caregivers who became close friends.

Michael was raised in Portland, Oregon and attended Portland Public Schools. In 1970 Michael graduated from Marshall High School.

Michael suffered a life altering injury in the summer of 1974. As a quadriplegic Michael was given a life expectancy of ten years. In true Michael fashion he proved the doctors wrong. Michael lived for over 50 years as a quadriplegic. Never one to give up, Michael took a new life path. After his injury Michael recuperated and began a new career as a computer programmer. Michael moved to Salem and purchased a home that he had retrofitted to accommodate his wheelchair and other needs. During his long career Michael used a stylus in his mouth and his intelligence to thrive as a computer programmer. During his time working for the State of Oregon Michael made many lifelong friendships. Mike didn't like facing the same problem twice, if he could help it!

Michael joined the Oregon Employment Department around 1983, as a programmer. He later moved to the Department of Human Resources as a Systems Programmer. Mike's next move was to the Department of Administrative Services. He retired after 30 + years of public service to the people of Oregon.

Michael was recognized as a compassionate, loving, dignified, detail oriented and determined individual. Family and friends could always depend on Michael to solve or help with their computer and technology issues. Michael enjoyed shopping and was always on the lookout for a bargain. He was a loving son and brother who took care of his sister, Julie, in his home after her diagnosis of ALS. Following his father's death, Donnie, Michael's mother shared his home until her death in October 2025. His longtime canine companion, Cossy died shortly after his mother. Deeply saddened by Cossy's passing, Michael found a perfect fit in Bianca, a rescue dog, in January 2026.

Michael vetted and hired his caregivers. Those who survived Mike's Boot Camp and worked with him became friends as well as employees. Mike was described by one caregiver as "one of the kindest people she had ever met. He didn't have a mean bone in his body. Mike was always prepared and on top of things." One of his caregivers was a paddle boarder. Once Mike realized the amount of time and effort it took to manually pump up a paddle board he purchased and gifted her an electric pump. Another caregiver considered Mike to be "a father figure who helped her navigate the world. He was a mentor who taught me about credit and how to build credit. Mike was a kind and loving man who was willing to help anyone with anything."

"He gave relationship advice like a big brother." Mike "was a trusted friend who helped you figure out the right things to do. While going through ups and downs. Mike was my rock and stability." All of Mike's caregivers considered him a dear friend and will miss him. Michael was truly a man among men. One last quote sums up Mike "he amazed me every day with the things that he could do, despite his disability...I am lost without him."

Michael's final canine companion was Bianca. She provided unconditional love and brought Michael a lot of attention, especially from the ladies. Every time Michael was getting ready to leave the house, Bianca was determined never to be left behind. The videos of her Olympic level gymnastic maneuvers to get and stay on his lap, brought laughter to all who viewed them. Bianca visited Michael in the hospital and was always snuggled up on him bringing peace and calm. Bianca's presence at Michael's side was a comfort as he transitioned and was a perfect example of their close bond.

Some of Michael's favorite pastimes included watching movies, working with various types of technology, joking around with his caregivers, and his dogs. Michael's younger cousins have fond memories of Michael taking them for rides on his wheelchair when they visited. Some rode on his lap and others remember standing on his feet. Together they flew down the sidewalk.

Michael was an avid reader of books, magazines and newspapers. Extremely intelligent and perceptive Michael gathered knowledge from print and people. Sometimes Michael and his caregivers, or Michael solo, went to the Farmers Market, the Christmas Lights, and annually to view the Cherry Blossoms. His dogs frequently accompanied Michael on his outings, in the van or riding on his wheelchair. Cossy, then Bianca rode on his lap as they relished nature's beautiful display rolling along the sidewalks in Salem every Spring when the Cherry Blossoms bloomed. Michael enjoyed frequent outings which often included eating at different restaurants. One time Mike and his caregiver went riding to Home Depot, he drove his wheelchair and she rode her bike. They stopped for lunch on that outing. Salem Center was also a favorite lunch destination. Michael enjoyed exploring his community and participating in a variety of local events. Michael lived his life with determination, compassion, integrity, honor, and displayed a strength of character that is rarely seen. The world was a better place for those who had the privilege of knowing Michael.

A private service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the ALS Society of Oregon <http://www.als-or.org> in the name of Michael Zeazeas in honor of his sister Julie.