Michael Zins, 56

Michael Clarence Zins, 56, Glenwood, died Thursday, November 29, 2012, surrounded by his family at home.

Michael was born March 6, 1956 in Alexandria to Bernard and Mary (Santer) Zins of Osakis.

He graduated from Osakis High School in 1974, after which he entered active duty in the U.S. Army. He obtained the rank of second lieutenant and was honorably discharged in 1980, but then later continued active service in the Minnesota National Guard for two years. Michael had since worked 28 years at WASP, where he was the facilities manager.

In 1982, he married Debra Klimek and settled near Glenwood. They had five children and through them, six grandchildren. They celebrated their 30th anniversary in June of 2012.

Michael was an avid fisherman, a predominant member of the Pope County Fishing League, and a skilled hunter with both a bow and a rifle. His interests included gardening, working on machines, the outdoors, but none were more important to him than spending time with his grandchildren.

He will be remembered for his stern yet playful demeanor, his love of the outdoors, and his solid integrity. His absence will be felt by many.

Michael is survived by his mother, Mary (Santer) Zins of Osakis; wife, Debra (Klimek) Zins of Glenwood; children, Adam (Elizabeth) Zins of Lowry, Brian (Crystal) Zins of Elk River, Christine Zins of Fertile, Douglas Zins of New York state, and Elizabeth Zins of Sauk Rapids; six grandchildren, Mikenzee, Charlotte, Teagan, Hunter, Aiden and Ella; sisters, Kathy (Richard) Hagen of Glenwood, Cynthia Houff of Osakis, Denice (William) Klimek of Osakis, Karen (Keith) Nelson of Alexandria, Lynn (David) Nelson of Nelson, Kay (David) Verkeulin of Little Falls; brothers, Daniel (Linda) Zins of Osakis, Richard (Kim) Zins of Glenwood, Alan (Cindy) Zins of Sebeka, Dale (Jenna) Zins of Nelson, Dean (Cassy) Zins of Rose City and Dave (Ruth) Zins of Glenwood; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Bernard Zins; brother, Mark Zins; and brother-in-law, Keith Klimek

A Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday, December 3 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Glenwood. Father Michael Wolfbauer officiated. Interment was at Calvary Cemetery in Glenwood.

Arrangements were with Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home of Glenwood. To send online condolences to the family, visit www.hoplinfuneralhome.com and click on obituaries.

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