Obituary of Bennie Michael Zappa

Of Flint, age 94 died, January 1, 2015 at Maple Woods Manor in Clio. The funeral service will take place 2:00 pm Tuesday, January 6, 2015 at Martin Funeral, Cremation, & Tribute Services in Mt. Morris. Deacon James Brown will officiate with burial to follow at Flint Memorial Park. Family will receive friends Monday, January 5, 2015 from 1:00 pm to 8:00 pm and again Tuesday 12:30 until time of service at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may direct memorial contributions to the Parkinson's Association. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. Bennie was born September 15, 1920 in Cumberland, Wisconsin, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Felix and Mary (DeDominces) Zappa. He and Evelyn Hipkins were united in marriage October 23, 1943 and shared 67 years of marriage. He had a lifetime of service to his community as the Fire Chief of Beecher Fire Department, with 45 years of service. Bennie retired from AC Spark Plug. He served in the Army during World War II. The Beecher Fire Department dedicated their hall in his name in 2009. He made great contributions in the rebuilding of the Beecher Area after the 1953 Tornado. Bennie belonged to the Genesee County Association of Fire Fighters and he was a Lifetime Member of the Fire Chiefs Association. Bennie enjoyed playing Keno at his Eagles Club,and going to the casino. He was a huge Detroit Tigers & Sparty fan. Bennie leaves to cherish his memory, children, Judy Anderson, Bonnie Bruff, Jackie and husband, Barry Bradley; grandchildren, Stacy, Scott, Jerry, Brandy, Michael, Markie; great-grandchildren, Sarah, Katie, Zac, Ryleigh, Jack, Lincoln; siblings, Donny and wife, Judy Zappa, Janice and husband, Jim Peterson, Caroline Poukey, Tony Ranallo. He was preceded in death by his parents; beloved wife, Evelyn; son, Danny Zappa; siblings, Frannie, Angie, Hermie, Rose, Mickey; chosen brother, Michael Vechell. The family wishes to thank the nurses, aides and staff at Maple Woods Manor for the loving care Dad received expecially during the last days of his illness.