Louis Michael Zale Jr.
Louis Michael “Mike” Zale, Jr. soared to his final resting place on October 8, 2023. As a family, we thank him for holding our spots until we get there. His principles and virtues will live on in our lives and beyond.
Our humbly ambitious and fiercely loving patriarch embraced life’s challenges with determination, dignity, and grace, especially his final struggle with Parkinson’s. Throughout his years of study and work, Mike found the resolution to enlist in the Army, graduate from OCS and flight school, raise a family, and explore his inclinations with enthusiasm, chief amongst them bluegrass music. Aside from his guitar and banjo plucking prowess, Mike was an acclaimed helicopter pilot, serving tours in Vietnam and Korea. After his seven years in the military, Mike continued his helicopter legacy for over 45 years. He worked for various helicopter companies in a variety of critical roles, which included serving as certified flight instructor, production test pilot, developing training programs and pilot flight manuals, and being a designated engineering representative for the FAA. He retired in 2014 after 29 years with MD Helicopters. Mike had many accomplishments that made him special, not just to us, but also the world. But what made him a once-in-a-lifetime human was how he left an impression in everyone’s mind and on everyone’s heart.
Be it working around the globe, playing bluegrass music, or being a friend to many, especially fellow Vietnam Helicopter Pilots and most recently, his Banner Neuro-Wellness Fitness buddies, he always found time to share a smile, look you in the eyes, and ask you with nostalgic sincerity “how are you?” Mike had that rare quality of authenticity. And he is missed.
His legacy will live on through his wife, Jan Zale; his daughter Amanda Comstock (Mel), granddaughter Emily Zale Comstock; and his son Louis Michael Zale III (Tanya) and step-grandson Alejandro Carillo. Catholic mass will be held in his honor at 1:00 pm on October 16th at St. George’s Catholic Church in Apache Junction, AZ. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations in his memory to Neuro Wellness Charitable Organization (NWCO) 207 N. Gilbert Road Basement 4, Gilbert AZ 85234 [email protected] , Disabled American Veterans – DAV – Chapter 1 of Phoenix, 111 E Dunlap Ave, Box 1-602, Phoenix, AZ 85020, or Hospice of the Valley www.hov.org
Save a place for me , my High School Friend .. in the Baritone Section of Heaven’s Marching Band. Ralph (Marmion Military Academy Cadet) … and 134th Assault Helicopter Company (Demon 14) Vietnam.
Mike! You have always been a great friend. I remember when I first met you & found out you were a helicopter pilot. I told him it was nice to meet someone normal . He said “Helicopter pilots are NOT normal.” We were always glad to see him . And seeing him with Jan made them both complete.
To my friend Mike Zale. You left this world too soon but you left this world better place through all the people who had the good fortune to have crossed your path.
Rest in heavenly peace.
Eric Ottens
We just want to let you that Michael & your family are in our prayers. We didn’t get to know Michael that well, but he sounds like someone that could inspire anyone he met. Being a fellow veteran I also thank him for his service to his country. Jan, may the Lord also comfort you & your family. May hos soul rest in peace , amen !!
So sorry for your loss. Sending prayers and condolences ❤️🩹
My wife, Maggie, and I have known Mike and Jan for only a few years. We are “bluegrass friends”, knowing the Zale’s from Apache Junction jams and their jams at Leisure World. Also, the last couple years I have played banjo and guitar with Mike and Jan’s band, Alpine Divide. I don’t believe anyone could ever “replace” Mike. My hope is that by playing in his band, I can carry on his legacy and his love for the music. May the “circle be unbroken”, Mike. Blessings and peace to Jan and the rest of his family.
We are so sorry for the loss of your loved one. Mike was an inspiration to those who knew him. While we are new acquaintances, we were so impressed by his courage and fight for life during his struggles with Parkinsons. He came out to all Blue Grass Jams with Jan. He was always pleasant to be around and know it had to be hard not to play any longer! Mike you are free and soaring with the angels and playing with all the great Bluegrass musicians who I’m sure have a place for you! Our deepest condolences to Jan and the family.