Michael Howard Zack

Michael Howard Zack, age 78, long-time resident of Stratford  and beloved husband of John Barnes, passed away on Monday, May 13, 2024 after a brief illness. long-time resident of Stratford, CT. Michael was born in Brooklyn, NY to Alice Mary and Michael Paul Zack. He graduated from St. Francis College and worked at American Tobacco. In the evenings Michael attended art classes and pursued an interest in photography he developed from his uncle Charles Iburg. Michael took loving care of his mother and father in their final years. In 1989, Michael met John Barnes, a kindred soul, at a gay men’s group. Michael and John eventually lived together and were able to marry in 2006. They built a happy life filled with many interests and close friends. Michael retired young in order to pursue his life long passion for art. Once retired Michael pursued his art studies full-time at Silvermine Arts School in New Canaan, CT, where he was soon honored as a Guild Artist. Michael eventually joined Creative Arts Workshop in New Haven, CT and then became a member of City Gallery, also in New Haven, where he was also treasurer. Michael pursued a variety of artistic styles and mediums and was considered an artistic original with many prize-winning monoprints. Michael will be greatly missed by all who knew him for his gentle nature and sure wit. His family and friends will treasure his artistic works he shared frequently with others for years to come. Michael is survived by his loving husband John Barnes of Stratford, and his beloved sister BarBara Zack Murphy of Norfolk, VA. In addition Michael leaves his two nephews Ronald Douglas Murphy and his wife Jeanine of Boston, and Michael Gregory Murphy and his wife Elizabeth of Norfolk, VA, as well great nieces Anna, Clara, Charlotte and Madeline. Michael was preceded in death by his great nephew John (Jack) Douglas Murphy. Michael also leaves many friends who are like family including Frank Wietrzychowski. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at 11:00 AM in the Galello-Luchanasky Funeral Home, 2220 Main Street, Stratford, officiated by Deacon Joseph Koletar. Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family. Friends may call on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at the Galello-Luchansky Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, those who so desire may contribute in Michaels’ memory to Connecticut Hospice, 100 Double Beach Road, Branford, CT 06405.

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