Name: Viewing for Michael Masato Zoll
Start: 2025-03-15T18:00:00.000Z
End: 2025-03-15T20:00:00.000Z
Location: Francis J. Collins Funeral Home, Inc. - Silver Spring

Michael Masato Zoll, 42, passed away on March 4, 2025. He was born on August 30, 1982 in Tokyo, Japan, grew up in Gaithersburg, Maryland, and made his eventual home in Washington, DC. He graduated from Watkins Hill High School in 2000 and earned a bachelor's degree in English from the University of Maryland, College Park.
In 2008, Michael moved to Southern California to study Theravada Buddhism, eventually becoming a fully ordained monk. In 2015, he deepened his practice by moving to Thailand to live in the Thai Forest Tradition. He returned to the U.S. in 2021 to support family health issues and began rebuilding his life in D.C. Michael then pursued a Master's in Paralegal Studies at George Washington University which led to his role as a Paralegal Specialist for the IRS Office of Chief Counsel. In his first year of work, he was awarded his division's "Paralegal of the Year" award, a testament to his dedication and skill.
Michael's greatest passion was literature, especially poetry, always seeking meaning and beauty in the written word. He had a keen eye for design and a love for typography, underground hip-hop, the outdoors, fitness, and fashion. Thoughtful, intelligent, and kind, he had a sharp sense of humor and a quiet strength. He was deeply loved, and his loss is mourned profoundly.
Michael is survived by his mother, Yoko Zoll; his father, Daniel Zoll; his sisters Erica
Bruno and Lisa Solecki; his nephew Julian, and nieces Claudia and Annika.
A viewing and gathering will be held on Saturday, March 15, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Francis J. Collins Funeral Home in Silver Spring, MD. Family and friends are invited to come together, share memories, and honor his life. Those who wish to speak are welcome.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to AmericanForests.org in his memory.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post on Mar. 9, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Zoll

18 Entries

Meng Khin

April 18, 2025

I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mike (fka Bhikku Anon), whom I had the privilege to work with during the publication of a Dhamma book in 2018. At that time, he was still a Buddhist monk, and our collaboration left a lasting impression on me-not only his dedication towards spreading the Dhamma, but also his humility.

As fellow Buddhists, we reflect on the impermanence of all conditioned things and seek solace in the Dhamma as our refuge. May the good merits that Mike attained in this life and his previous lives allow him to be reborn in a fortunate realm. May he continue the path of Dhamma, ever progressing towards final liberation from suffering.

Amira Kusala

March 30, 2025

Deeply saddened, I join others in expressing my gratitude for having the honor and privilege of knowing Mike. A noble man, he was one of the kindest, most gentle, respectful and enjoyable young men I had the honor of serving with at Wat Metta. His sincerity and good heart blessed us all. I offer condolences to his family.

John Kusala

March 30, 2025

I met and got to know Mike, first when he was an interested layperson, then a candidate, and finally as an ordained monk, while my wife, Amira, and I were steward/caretakers at Wat Metta. I can say without hesitation or exaggeration that Mike was one of the finest persons I have ever met. He was always friendly, kind, helpful, and truly noble in his bearing. I am deeply saddened to learn of his passing, but feel blessed that our lives intertwined for a time.

Linda Harter

March 25, 2025

I knew Mike as Than Mike when I lived at Wat Metta and in Thailand. I was heartbroken to hear of his death but certain that his goodness will lead him to peace. He was an amazing person with a wonderful smile and golden heart. Wishing peace for all.

John N Bell

March 24, 2025

Sensei, I am so sorry to learn about the passing of your son. It was my pleasure to be one of your students at the USDA Graduate School's Japanese language program. You gave me the nickname "Amazon-no ikinokori," because I had traveled to the Peruvian Amazon region. I remember that you talked about your son to our our class, and that you were intent on showing him the various aspects of Japanese culture. Please know that I send you my love and respect at this most difficult time.

Alberto Mendoza Jr.

Planted Trees

Alberto Mendoza

March 17, 2025

How truly saddening it was to hear of your passing my friend. Gone too soon and even before i had the chance to know you better. We did share some deep dialogue and am happy that you touched and brightened my life. Thanks for visiting me in my dreams. I'll try to follow your path and spread the love, kindness, and brightness along my journey. RIParadise Michael.

Sonya E. Shultz

Planted Trees

Michael Kosman and Tomoko Sano

March 15, 2025

We send our most sincere sympathy and condolences to Yoko and Daniel Zoll. Michael was a very gentle, kind and sincere man. He will be deeply missed by many.
Michael Kosman and Tomoko Sano

Theresa

March 15, 2025

I had the privilege of working with Michael, and consider myself truly blessed to have known him. Kind, patient, and always generous with his time and knowledge for anyone with a question.

Michael brought warmth, peace and a balanced perspective everyday to his interactions,
without fail. He will be so sorely missed.

Monica Holmes

March 14, 2025

I didn't know Michael, but I know his mom. My condolences and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May the Lord comfort you and your family when you need peace. We, your friends and co-workers are here to support you in whatever you may need.

Elsie Solecki

March 11, 2025

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Elsie Solecki and Bob Larke

Sent Flowers

Jessica Sanchez

March 11, 2025

I worked with Michael as a paralegal at Chief Counsel. I truly considered him a dear friend. We spoke often and he always teased me about being old because I didn't understand the cool acronyms and lingo he used (although he was a couple of months older than me). I work in another state but we always plotted on how we could be on a trial team together. He was super intelligent, had an amazing work ethic, and a positive attitude. He was ALWAYS willing to help, no matter how busy he may have been, and he was one of the best paralegals I ever had the privilege to work with. Our Chief Counsel family is heartbroken for Michael's family and I miss him dearly.