Michael Allen Zulli

Born March 9, 1950, in Milwaukee to Anthony and Agatha Zulli, Dad was raised Catholic but later found his spiritual home in the Greek Orthodox Church. He was deeply drawn to the rich mysticism and ancient liturgy of Eastern Orthodoxy. It fed his soul in ways nothing else did. He loved it so much that he had some of his children baptized Orthodox, wanting to pass on that profound spiritual tradition.

He earned his PhD in Clinical Psychology from Marquette University, his alma mater, and practiced as a licensed psychologist in Wisconsin, New Mexico, and California. For decades he helped people face real hardship with compassion, clear insight, and deep respect for human dignity.

Dad’s later years brought struggles, as life can, but we will always remember the kind, loving father he was at heart. He adored Flora, Hillary, and Josh with a fierce, quiet pride that never faded. We were his greatest joy and deepest pride. He loved hitting the road in his RV, first with his siblings Tony, Jack, Joe, Lisa, and Judy when they were young, making memories on family adventures, and later with us kids, sharing stories, laughing, and just being together as a family.

He had a lifelong love for playing basketball, something he never gave up. Right up to the end, he was out on the courts in San Francisco, holding his own and often sparring with guys 50 years younger than him. That competitive fire and easy laugh never dimmed.

Dad gave us a lifetime of memories rooted in faith, family, and honest work. His steady kindness, dry humor, and the way he made us feel loved and valued will stay with us forever.

Rest in peace, Dad. We love you always.

Josh, on behalf of Flora, Hillary, and the Zulli family