News Summary
Novi, Michigan is coming together to honor the lives of John ‘Jack’ D. Zinser and Melissa Ann Newmark, two cherished community members. Jack, age 96, was known for his dedication to family, while Melissa, 41, left a legacy of kindness and commitment to education. Memorial services are planned for both individuals as the community reflects on their impact.
Novi, Michigan Pays Tribute to John “Jack” D. Zinser and Melissa Ann Newmark
Novi, Michigan is mourning the recent passings of two beloved community members, John “Jack” D. Zinser, age 96, and Melissa Ann Roemer Newmark, known affectionately as Missy, who was 41. Their contributions to their families and the community are being honored as tributes pour in for both individuals.
John “Jack” D. Zinser – A Life Well-Lived
Jack Zinser passed away peacefully on August 15, 2025. He was a devoted husband to Suzanne “Sue” Zinser and a loving father to two sons, Tom and John, who both carry on his legacy as proud grandfathers to six grandchildren and great-grandfathers to six great-grandchildren. Jack’s close family ties extended to his late sister, Janet Bilby.
A memorial service for Jack is scheduled for this fall at the First United Methodist Church in Northville, Michigan. Details surrounding the service will be shared with family and friends in due time.
Melissa Ann Newmark – A Legacy of Kindness
Melissa Ann (Missy) Newmark passed away on May 6, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication towards her family and community. Born on September 16, 1983, she grew up in Novi and graduated from Novi High School in 2002. Melissa pursued higher education at Michigan State University, earning her degree in Elementary Education in 2006 and later securing a Master’s Degree in Reading with an ELL endorsement.
After teaching for a year in Atlanta, Georgia, Melissa spent 18 years teaching at Frost and Tarkington Elementary Schools in Wheeling CCSD21. Her passion for education was matched by her love for her family, including her husband, Scott Newmark, whom she married in 2011. Together, they raised three children: Benjamin, Emma, and Will. Her family described her as “Auntie M,” cherished by her nieces and nephews.
Memorial Services and Community Support
In honor of Melissa Newmark, a memorial visitation will take place on May 13, 2025, from 4 PM to 8 PM at the Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory in Lake Zurich, IL. This will be followed by a memorial service on May 14, 2025, at 11 AM at the Barrington United Methodist Church, with visitation beginning at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to “Everytown Moms Demand Action,” a cause Melissa was passionate about.
Community Impact
The passings of both Jack Zinser and Melissa Newmark have left an indelible mark on Novi and beyond. Jack’s long life was characterized by devotion to family, and Melissa’s enduring commitment to education and social justice exemplified her caring nature towards others. Their lives remind the community of the power of love, family bonds, and community service.
These memorials stand as a testimony to the legacy they leave behind, one filled with cherished memories and lifelong friendships. As their families make arrangements to celebrate their lives, residents in Novi and beyond reflect on the profound impact both had within their communities.
For more information regarding Jack’s obituary and life story, family members have shared details online.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Metro Detroit Communities Honor Memorial Day with Ceremonies
Additional Resources
- Detroit Free Press Obituaries
- Wikipedia: Novi, Michigan
- Davenport Family Funeral Home: Melissa Newmark
- Google Search: Memorial Services in Michigan
- Legacy.com: Lillian Williams Obituary
Author: STAFF HERE NORTHVILLE WRITER
The NORTHVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENorthville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Northville, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Summer Concert Series, Tunes on Tuesday, and the Northville Farmers Market. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Northville Chamber of Commerce and Northville Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, software, and retail that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Reliable Software, and Attendance on Demand. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
