Michael C. "Mr. Z" Zelenski

Mr. Z was a great inspiration to us silly, petty students--a day in Shakespeare class did not pass without some revelation, some historical allusion or anecdote that caused even the raunchy of us to blush. Imagine this: Mr. Z acted out every character of every play, every class day! I consider him the benchmark that all teachers of Shakespeare literature measure up to -- I don't believe this was his intent but certainly his style. I think of him now as I see my kids succeed in their...

"Our revels now are ended...We are such stuff as dreams are made on; and our little life is rounded with a sleep." Michael Zelenski was an inspired and inspiring teacher who introduced the joys of Shakespeare to teenagers. Thank you, Mr. Z. You often played to tough audiences, but you never missed a cue. My prayers and sympathy for Phyllis, children, and family.

Thank you for teaching me what Shakespeare really meant in all of his writings Mr. Z. I am truthfully a better student for what you taught me and how you made me see the world. I was so blessed to have had the opportunity to be your student. Thanks will never be enough.

Mr. Z was the finest teacher/professor that I ever had, anywhere. His ability to bring Science Fiction and Shakespeare to life to a bunch of high school students was outstanding.

I developed my world view and life's philosophy because of Mr. Z.

I met my wife of 38 years (9 years dating, 29 married) in Mr. Z's Shakespeare class.

I majored in English in college, largely due to Mr. Z's influence.

To say he shaped my life would not be an overstatement. He was a great man, a great educator, and a wonderful mentor.

Rest in peace, my friend.
--
Jay Honeck
Class of '76

It was so apparent when I first met Mr. Z, in 1971, that this man had a confidence and "strangeness" and gift that made him uniquely special. I blame him for infecting the entire Van Opens clan and others with a witty and sarcastic sense of humor. I learned much about Shakespeare, life, set construction, and how to play Hearts from him. It's a shame that more won't get to directly benefit from his wisdom, but his memory is well seated in thousands of students who've benefitted from his...

Phyillis, I am so very sorry for your loss. I am sending you prayers and lots of love and huggs...

I was a student in the early 1970s. I didn't appreciate him then as I might have. Now I consider him one of the great people I have encountered.

--Bill Hecht 1975 St. Cats Alum.

So few people can leave such life long impressions as Mr. Z has done for so many people. He was a true gift for everyone who knew him and will be dearly missed. Sympathies and blessings to his family and many friends.