Darwin Charles Zander

Darwin Charles Zander, age 71, passed away on October 31, 2018. Darwin was born on July 24th, 1947. Unbeknownst to him until much later in life, he was adopted at the age of 2. Beatrice and Charles Zander gave him a tender upbringing in Livonia, Michigan. At the age of 5, he helped his parents build the family house. This house would become his most beloved place and where he lived the majority of his life. A chance job opportunity at a plastic’s firm as a salesman unknowingly led to a 45-year career in sales relating to “all things plastic.” Twenty-five years ago, he started his own business. For about 15 years, he worked his corporate job and devoted nights and weekends to growing Zander and Associates. He was the hardest working person around! Darwin loved his family dearly. He met the love of his life, Michelle Zander, and the two spent over 40 years together; they shared a treasured love story. When Michelle fell ill in the last years of her life, he was a wonderful caretaker. Michelle and Darwin raised two children together: Terra (Spencer) and Maggie (Graham). So much time was shared as a family laughing and spending time together. He loved son-in-law’s Mark and Stephen. He was so happy to have them in his life to share in his hobbies and projects. Darwin doted on his 4 grandchildren: Ahlivia, Jillian, Carly and Paul. They loved all his hugs and all the goodies he would give them. He cherished his relationship with his God children, Star and Tyrell, as well as their children: Elijah, T.J. and Khassidy. He was an extraordinary role model for all of us! Darwin was an avid gardener and spent most of his time outside prepping, planting and fighting the never-ending job of picking up sticks. He also enjoyed hunting, bonfires and playing cornhole with his brother-in-law, Chuck. If he was outside, he was happy! Tiger baseball games, World War 2 history and coin-collecting were hobbies that added to the happiness in his life. Darwin had a great love of the Lord which carried him through life’s highs and lows, including his battle with cancer. Darwin had a terrific sense of humor and will be greatly missed by all who knew him! We love you, dad! The visitation service will be held Sunday, November 4th at: Harris Funeral Home – 15451 Farmington Road, Livonia, MI 48154 from 2-9pm, Rosary at 7pm. Funeral services will be held Monday at St. Priscilla’s Catholic Church – 19120 Purlingbrook, Livonia, MI 48152 at 10am. Directly following the mass, the burial will take place at Grand Lawn Cemetery – 23501 Grand River Avenue, Detroit, MI 48219. Luncheon to follow. Please share a memory of Darwin by writing on his tribute wall.