Michael D. Zenisek, age 68, a resident of Wheaton, IL, died at home on Tuesday, October 20 surrounded by his family. He was born September 1, 1947 in Chicago to James and Shirley Zenisek.

Mike grew up in Downers Grove and graduated from Downers Grove High School. He enlisted in the U. S. Army and served in Germany and Vietnam. He received a purple heart, Vietnam Combat Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and the Army Commendation Medal. He served with Company B 504th Military Police Battalion and in the elite criminal investigation division (CID). After Vietnam he returned home and became a Deputy for the DuPage County Sheriff's Department. He coordinated the Crime-Stoppers, served on the accreditation committee, and he retired as a detective in the warrants and fugitive apprehension division.

He was a fan of sports, especially the White Sox and Blackhawks. He was a vice-president of the Flames Hockey Association, served on the NIHL suspension committee, and was an active hockey Dad. He was also involved with the Veterans of Foreign Wars, post 6791 in West Chicago and a member of the American Legion Post at Cantigny, Wheaton. He loved attending yearly reunions of the 504th Vietnam MP Battalion in October. He enjoyed woodworking, model railroading, and repairing his cars. He also enjoyed following NHRA drag racing.

Boy Scouting was an important part of his life. He served as a scoutmaster and earned adult badges and was awarded the Order of the Arrow and Silver Beaver. He was camp director for Camp Freeland Leslie in Oxford, Wisconsin for 4 years with his youngest son Andrew. He continued in scouting, helping scouts earn their Eagle Badges.

He had a great sense of humor and a quick wit. He loved to share his love of food with others.

He is survived by his wife, Christina Zenisek, three children, James (Anna) Zenisek of Wheaton, Michelle Zenisek of Wheaton, and Specialist Andrew Zenisek, stationed in Germany, three grandchildren, Bella, Layla and Reed, two sisters, Karen Ocon of Colorado and Linda (Rick) Drapak of Carol Stream, and two nieces, Jenna and Amanda.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one brother, Peter.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, October 25, 2015 from 2 until 8 p.m. at Hultgren Funeral Home, 304 N. Main St., Wheaton, IL, where a funeral service will be held on Monday, October 26, at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois at 1:30 p.m.

Memorial gifts may be directed to the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans , 433 S. Carlton Ave., Wheaton, IL 60187 or the family.