Joseph Carl Zinsmaster, Sr. age 92 of Mendon, MI passed away at his home on July 12, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on September 20, 1933 the son of Kenneth Zinsmaster and Arlene Millard. Joe attended Mendon High School and was part of the 1952 graduating class. Following high school, he would join the United States Army and serve his country while stationed in Texas. In 1954, Joe would marry Mary Hampton and together would raise four children. Joe and Mary would later divorce. On May 22, 1976 Joe would marry Marie (Murphy) Pianowski in Centreville, MI and enjoy 44 years of marriage until her passing in 2020.

Joe was a true outdoorsman, happiest while tending to his yard, cutting wood, mowing, bailing hay. He was always available and happy to help with odd projects his children were involved in. Joe was no stranger to hard work, working at the Haas Corp/Lear for nearly 40 years, driving school bus for Mendon Schools for over a decade, and working for fun with Marie at Meijer in Three Rivers for a few years. He was an avid NASCAR fan, cheering for the #3 car and #8 car, taking trips to Michigan International Speedway and having the privilege to ride in a car around the track. Joe enjoyed taking trips to Green Valley in Sturgis for camping, stopping at the local casino, and traveling out west to Vegas for some real casino experiences. He would often be seen walking the streets of Centreville, trying to get his five miles in, even in sub-zero temperatures. Bowling in Three Rivers was always something he looked forward to. He was also a member of the VFW in Three Rivers and a member of St. Joseph County Grange Fair Association. Joe loved to keep busy; making sure the yard looked perfect, keeping the cars washed, and helping his family – whom he loved very much.

Joe is survived by his children; Joe (Cathy) Zinsmaster, Chuck (Diane) Zinsmaster, and Angie Kemp; step-son, Steve Pianowski; son-in-law, Mark Schabes; fifteen grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great-grandchild; sister, Marlene Brueck; and many nieces, nephews, extended families, and friends. He was preceded in passing by his parents, Kenneth and Arlene; his step-mother, Evelyn; his siblings, John Zinsmaster, Delores Hamilton, and Phillip Zinsmaster; his son-in-law, Dave Kemp; his daughter, Deborah Schabes; his grandson, Aaron Pianowski; and his wife, Marie Zinsmaster.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 from 4p until 7p at the Eickhoff Funeral Home (311 W Main St., Mendon, MI 49072). Funeral services will take place on Thursday, July 16, 2026 at 1pm at the funeral home with Rev. Fred Simmonds officiating. Following the funeral, burial will take place at Mendon Cemetery. It is suggested that donations be directed to either the Mendon Fire Department or directly to the family to place a memorial bench in honor of Joe and Marie Zinsmaster at the St. Joseph County Grange Fair. Condolences and memories may be expressed to Joe’s family at eickhofffuneralhome.com