Michael J. Zowada, 78, Sheridan, died Friday, Aug. 29, 2008, at Sheridan VA Medical Center.

Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at Kane Funeral Home with the Rev. Ron Stolcis officiating. Interment will follow in Sheridan Elks Cemetery.

Born Jan. 13, 1930, in Dietz to Michael and Anna Mentock Zowada, he graduated from Sheridan High School in 1948 and enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1951. He served in the Korean War and was honorably discharged in 1952.

He married Helen Oelschlager at Holy Name Catholic Church on June 15, 1957. He was a life member of Sheridan Elks Lodge and Big Horn Mountain Marine Corps League.

During his younger years, he enjoyed fast-pitch softball, playing for the Sheridan Beer team.

He took pride in organizing the monthly meeting of surviving members and close friends associated with the 1946 Sheridan Bronc state championship football team. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting and photography.

He is survived by his wife; two sons, Loren and Merlin Zowada, both of Sheridan; a brother, Edward Zowada of Sheridan; two granddaughters; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may benefit Webb Wright Baseball Foundation, P.O. Box 2007, Sheridan, WY 82801.

The Sheridan Press - September 3, 2008