Donna Jo Zuiker

Donna Jo Zuiker (Mikolaiczik), 65, passed away on September 2, 2026, following complications from a routine surgery.

Donna was born on March 16, 1961, in Saginaw, Michigan, to the late Ralph and Maryann Mikolaiczik. She graduated from Arthur Hill High School in 1979, where she dominated on the basketball court. She attended Ferris State University, where she met Christopher Zuiker, her husband of 47 years.

Donna spent her entire career working as an MRI Technologist. She was one of the hardest workers you could ever meet, approaching both her career and life with determination and incredible resilience. Throughout her life, she faced many health challenges, but she continued to persevere with strength, humor, and an unwavering spirit. She called several places home, including Bedford, Texas; Higgins Lake, Michigan; and Chandler, Arizona.

Donna was a deeply loving grandmother who cherished time with her family, near and far. Whether boating or skiing, she was always up for an adventure with her family and friends, especially when some shenanigans were involved along the way.

She loved staying active and spending time outdoors, whether practicing yoga, riding her bike, or tending to the backyard pool oasis and garden she lovingly created. She was also an avid reader who always enjoyed a good book.

Donna is survived by her husband, Christopher Zuiker; her children, Bradley (Alicia) and Katherine (Dan); her grandchildren, Betsy, Audrey, Jack, Zach, and Benjamin; and her siblings, Terry Mikolaiczik, Sally Ross, Carol Frost, and Janice Rau. She also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews, whom she absolutely treasured. She loved baking with them, playing board and card games, and hosting them up north for fun weekends filled with laughter, family, and time together at the lake. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Maryann Mikolaiczik, and her sister, Connie Mikolaiczik.

Donna will be remembered by all who knew and loved her for her sense of humor, adventurous spirit, determination, and the warmth and joy she brought to those around her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

A visitation will be held at 10:00 AM on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at St. Francis Catholic Church in Traverse City, Michigan, followed by a funeral Mass at 11:00 AM. Family and friends are invited to attend. Afterward, all are welcome to join the family for a luncheon at Sleder's Family Tavern in Traverse City.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Chandler Public Library in Donna's memory.