Michael Jose Zabala

Celebrating The Life & Legacy Of MICHAEL JOSE ZABALA August 18, 1991 – March 11, 2025 Michael Jose Zabala is also known as Z, Tarzan, Marine Mike or Zabala to his family & friends, 33 of Middletown, CT, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, March 11, 2025. Born on August 18, 1991, in the Dominican Republic, Michael moved to Connecticut at a young age and spent most of his life there. He attended Classical Magnet School, where his athleticism shone, earning a spot on the wrestling leaderboard multiple times, including winning state championships. Michael graduated in 2010 and went on to enlist in the United States Marine Corps, where he served proudly from 2010 to 2015, earning the rank of Corporal before receiving an honorable discharge. After his military service, Michael worked as a correctional officer at York Correctional Institution in Niantic, CT, where he dedicated himself to his work from 2019 until his untimely passing. Michael was known for his incredible love for his family, especially his wife, Vanessa, and their two sons, Michael Idris Zabala Jr. and Matthew Ares Zabala of Middletown, CT and son Nicolas Alvarez Zabala of Simsbury. He was a devoted father who always made time for his family, whether it was enjoying their favorite hobbies like wrestling, gaming, football or spending time at the beach & ocean. He was a devoted Steelers fan and enjoyed listening to DMX. His spontaneous nature meant he was always up for an adventure or gathering with friends and loved ones at a moment's notice. A true jokester with a heart of gold, Michael had an infectious laugh that could light up any room. He had a way of making everyone around him feel special, offering words of encouragement when they needed it most. His favorite color was purple, and his love for life was as vibrant as the hue itself. Michael's adventurous spirit and love for life left a lasting impression on all who knew him. If you crossed paths with Z, he made time for you, consider yourself blessed because he loved you. In addition to his wife and children, Michael leaves behind his brother, Shaquille Zabala; his grandparents, Elias and Emilia Zabala; his aunt, Emily Martinez (Osbaldo); his uncle, Elias Zabala Jr. all of New York; sister in law Zuleyn Gonzalez of Hartford, CT; brother in law Jamie Gonzalez (Ivelisse Arcelay) of East Hartford and his best friends and brothers, DeVonte' Williams Sr., Robert Williams Sr., Rick Deschanes, and Quannal Sanabria. He is also deeply loved by his extended family, Alecia Harris-Williams and David Williams Sr., as well as a large circle of friends. Michael was preceded in death by his mother, Ingrid Zabala. Michael's legacy of love, laughter, and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will forever be remembered for his boundless energy, his unwavering support, and his generous spirit. Rest in peace, Michael-your light will never fade. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, March 20th at 11:30 am at the Doolittle Funeral Home, 14 Old Church Street, Middletown. A burial will follow in the State Veteran Cemetery in Middletown where full military honors will be accorded. Family and friends may call on Wednesday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the Doolittle Funeral Home. To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael Jose Zabala, please visit our floral store.