Zechariah "Zack" James Tanis' Obituary
Zechariah (Zack) James Tanis, 26, Coral, Michigan, died unexpectedly March 30, 2021. Zack was born April 13, 1994 in Yuma, AZ to James and Kimberly Tanis. He moved to Lakeview, Michigan with his folks when he was two years old. His parents had both accepted teaching jobs at Lakeview Middle School.
As a child, Zack asked Jesus Christ to be the King of his Heart. He was raised in the Church and the Wednesday CLC program that his parents led and helped teach.
Zack became passionate about soccer at age four and continued throughout high school, and was the captain of the soccer team. He enjoyed his education through the Lakeview Community School system. He graduated with enough scholarships to attend CMU with his first year's tuition 100% paid. Zack was an avid reader.
Zack double-majored in English and advertising. He used these skills to promote the R. E. A. C. H. van, a Montcalm/Ionia County outreach begun by his mother to provide clothing and other basic needs without judgement to impoverished and migratory families. This non-profit gave Zack much satisfaction.
Music always played an important role for Zack. He played piano for years and was a self-taught acoustic and bass guitarist. Hiking and camping were just as important to him. He spent untold hours in the woods and on state land exploring and enjoying God's nature. Kayaking, fishing, and being out on the local lakes brought him pleasure. He enjoyed always learning and spent an immense of time teaching himself automotive skills.
Zechariah is survived by his parents, James & Kimberly; his brother, Jacob; his grandparents, Jim & Martha Tanis, Eugene and Cynthia Draper; Aunt Heidi (Wayne) Meuller, Aunt Shelly (Frank) Miller, Uncle Kevin Draper; cousins, Ben, Owen, Josh, Lauren Mueller, Bealey, Brooke, & Brian Herald.
Visitation will be held at Brigham Funeral Chapel, 9977 W Howard City-Edmore Rd, Lakeview, MI 48850. Visitation times are Wednesday, April 7 from noon-3:00pm. A private family service will be held from 4:00-5:00pm. However, the service is being live-streamed, so friends are able to view our tribute to Zechariah. Thank you, Pastor Julie Drews, for agreeing to officiate.
Zechariah selflessly volunteered to be an organ donor for Gift of Life, which is using all his organs, plus other parts to be used for scientific research. He would encourage all of us to consider doing the same. It is our hope that others will be helped for many years to come.
In lieu of flowers, people may make donations that will go to the following: Jacob's continued pursuit of higher education, purchasing a few outdoor plants (roses, ferns, and hostas) because of Zack's love of nature to build a garden, and a memorial fund to Cowden Lake Christian Church.
Due to Covid masks and social distancing protocal will be strictly followed. Condolences may be made by utilizing the guestbook at www. brighamfuneralchapel. com
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