Michele Zychowski

MICHELE R. ZYCHOWSKI (nee Varcelli) age 73, beloved wife for 43 years of James; loving mother of Michele Zychowski (husband Garth Olszko), Michael (wife Elizabeth), Jamie Smith (husband Daniel), and Roseann Zychowski (fiancé Neil Schaefer); devoted grandmother of Owen and Ava Zychowski, Noah and Scarlett Smith, Charlie Zychowski and Lucas Smith; cherished daughter of the late Michael and Arlene (nee Tabasso) Varcelli; treasured sister of Michael (wife Kathy), Joseph (wife Linda), Roseann Varcelli-Walters (husband Kirk), Anthony (wife Donna) and the late Harry; dear aunt and great-aunt and friend of many.

To her family and friends, Michele was a source of unwavering love and support. She had the rare and beautiful gift of bringing people together-creating a sense of community wherever she went. Her presence lit up every room, and her ability to connect with people on a deep level made her not only beloved but unforgettable.

To her children's friends, she was a second mother, a confidante, and a safe place for anyone who needed comfort, encouragement, or just a good laugh. Her door was always open, her kitchen always warm, and her heart even warmer.

To her husband, Michele's love for James was evident in the way she cared for their family, the home they created together, and the countless everyday moments that became cherished memories. Their love, an example of enduring commitment, and a beautiful testament to what it means to truly share a life with someone

Born on October 18, 1951, in Cleveland, Ohio, Michele was the cherished daughter of Michael and Arlene Varcelli. She graduated from Notre Dame High School in 1969 and attended John Carroll University, later using her talents and strong will to build a successful catering business. Additionally, she followed her calling as a Holistic Health Practitioner-helping others heal and grow with her wisdom, compassion, and gentle strength. Her warm, selfless, and caring nature inspired and empowered everyone around her to face life with courage and confidence.

Michele was a true warrior-facing life's challenges with remarkable courage and grace. Yet beyond her strength, she was known for her big heart, her love of deep conversations, and her wonderful sense of humor. She had a way of making people feel seen, heard, and completely at home.

Whether she was cooking a big family meal, playing cards at the dining room table, spending a day at Cedar Point, or traveling to her favorite places like Sedona, the Grand Canyon, or Disney World-Michele's joy came from being with the people she loved most.

Above all else, Michele held family at the center of her world. Her laugh, her constant support, and her radiant, loving personality will be deeply missed-but her legacy lives on in the kindness she showed, the wisdom she shared, and the joy she brought into so many lives. She didn't just bring people together-she made them feel like family.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Michele to create the Michele Zychowski Reiki Scholarship Fund. Arrangements and cremation by DeJohn Funeral Home Crematory. Private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.