In Loving Memory of Michael Arthur Zugnoni, 1942-2025
Michael Arthur Zugnoni passed away peacefully on Monday, June 23, 2025 in Folsom, CA at the age of 82.
Our dad was born on October 26, 1942 to Arthur and Stella Zugnoni in Berkeley, California. He was the first born of three children. His early childhood years were spent in Albany, California and he graduated from Albany High School in 1960. He then attended Cal State Hayward and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and history in 1965. He then continued his education to obtain his teaching credential from Cal State Hayward in 1966. While at Cal State Hayward, Michael met the love of his life, Sharon Russo. They married on August 19, 1967, and built a beautiful life together in Manteca, California.
In 1966, he became one of the original hires at East Union High School, where he spent nearly four decades as a beloved teacher and counselor — eventually becoming simply known as 'Mr. Z.' Later, Michael continued his education and graduated from law school in 1975 with a Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.). Although Mr. Z primarily taught history, government, and economics, he eventually integrated his legal expertise to East Union by introducing 'Youth and the Law,' which gave aspiring lawyers the opportunity to explore legal studies at the high school level, and 'International Relations,' which allowed students to examine global politics, diplomacy, and world affairs.
Michael made significant contributions to East Union High School through his many roles, including Senior class advisor, yearbook advisor, photography and journalism teacher, sophomore head baseball coach, and varsity assistant coach. In 1986, Michael was recognized for his dedication when he was named San Joaquin Teacher of the Year. The following year, he earned his master’s degree in School Counseling. Michael then transitioned into the role of Guidance Counselor before eventually becoming East Union’s Career Counselor in 2000, where he revitalized the Career Center and organized a comprehensive, fully funded scholarship program to support graduates pursuing higher education.
In early 2025, Michael was unanimously inducted into the East Union High School Hall of Fame—a testament to his lasting impact. He was more than an educator; he was a mentor, a friend, and a cornerstone of the East Union community. His legacy is immeasurable.
During their 57-year marriage, Mike and Sharon were blessed with two children, Brett and Melissa. Together, they built their home in Manteca, California, and created a warm, loving family grounded in faith and love. Michael’s deep devotion to his faith was evident throughout his life. For over 35 years, he served as the preacher at the Manteca Church of Christ, where he shared God’s word and provided guidance, comfort, and spiritual leadership to the community he cherished.
Outside of his professional and spiritual work, Michael found great joy in woodworking and spending time at the family cabin in Oakhurst, California—a place where countless cherished memories were made. A masterful woodworker, he crafted a guitar, beds, pens, nutcrackers, pepper mills, and many other beautiful pieces, each a testament to his skill and creativity. Michael also loved sharing the outdoors with his grandchildren—teaching them how to fish, giving joyful tractor rides, and passing on his appreciation for nature and simple moments together.
Michael is preceded in death by his parents Arthur and Stella Zugnoni. Michael is survived by his loving wife Sharon Zugnoni, his brother Randy Zugnoni and his sister Terri Zugnoni. Michael is also survived by his children Brett and his wife Letitia, their children: Ethan, Collin, Austin, and Gianna; Melissa and her husband Eric, their children: Caleb, Bryce, and Dawson. His legacy of kindness, wisdom, and faith lives on in them and in all whose lives he touched.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Modesto, Harvest Crossing of Manteca, and The Folsom Care Center for their thoughtful and compassionate care for our dad after his stroke on April 16, 2025. They are perfect examples of a servant’s heart.
A funeral service to honor and celebrate Michael’s life will be held on July 26, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at P.L. Fry and Son Funeral Home in Manteca, California. All are welcome to attend and share in remembering a truly remarkable man.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
2 Timothy 4:7
Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Friday, July 18, 2025
