Linda S. Zurek

Linda S. Zurek, age 63, of Northville, passed away on November 22, 2024. She was born on December 1, 1960 in Saint Marys, Ohio; daughter of Alan and Irene (Paulin) Nurmi. Linda was united in marriage to David J. Zurek on September 13, 2003; they spent 21 years lovingly devoted to one another.

Linda was a proud graduate of Plymouth Canton High School's Class of 1978. During her high school years, she showcased her musical talent as a clarinetist in the marching band, even performing at the prestigious Orange Bowl. Linda also played on the women’s golf team, earning the distinguished Evans Scholarship to Michigan State University.  She graduated from Michigan State with a bachelor’s degree in nursing, a testament to her dedication to caring for others. Her quest for knowledge and professional growth led her to Santa Clara University in California, where she earned an MBA. She further enriched her expertise by completing her Parish Nurse Certification at Concordia University.

Linda began her nursing career at the VA Hospital in Ann Arbor, dedicating herself to serving veterans with compassion and care. She later transferred to the VA Hospital in San Francisco, where she continued her work for several years. Seeking new opportunities, Linda transitioned to the pharmaceutical industry, becoming a pump specialist with Abbott Labs and later excelling as a pharmaceutical account manager with Pfizer. Her dedication and exceptional performance earned her recognition and awards throughout her career, including a memorable cruise to Greece, where she shared the experience with her beloved sister as her guest.

Linda was a founding member of Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church in Livonia, where she was an active and devoted participant. Her deep and abiding faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and shaping her relationships. Linda's commitment to her church and her spiritual beliefs touched every aspect of her life.

Linda embraced an active and adventurous lifestyle. An avid runner, she completed four marathons, demonstrating her determination and love for physical challenges. Her passion for exploration led her on multiple overseas bike tours, where she pedaled through the scenic countryside of Spain, Italy, and France.  Linda also enjoyed a casual round of golf and always had fun bowling with girlfriends in a league.  In her quiet moments, Linda found joy and serenity in reading and took great pride in nurturing the beautiful flower gardens she lovingly tended.

Family was at the heart of who Linda was. She felt deeply blessed to grow up in a loving and supportive family, and she carried that example into raising her own. Linda always dreamed of having a large family and was blessed with a daughter. She expanded her family by adopting three sons from Russia and lovingly embraced her 3 stepsons as her own. Her life truly revolved around her family.  Linda devoted herself to homeschooling her children, ensuring they received a well-rounded education enriched with extracurricular activities such as dance, art, sports, church youth clubs, and scouting. She passed on her love of music to her children, sharing her talents on the clarinet, and piano.  She also sang with the Finnish American Singers at the Finnish Cultural Center in Livonia.  A faithful caregiver, Linda lovingly cared for her parents and always put the needs of others before her own. She was known as the family’s “social director,” planning memorable vacations, hosting holidays, and bringing everyone together for joyful gatherings at her home.  Linda’s unwavering love and devotion to her family and faith were the hallmarks of her life and will be cherished by all who knew her.

Linda is survived by her loving husband, David Zurek; her children, Nick (Sascha) Zurek, Michael (Alli) Zurek, Jonathan (Nichole) Zurek, Hannah Zurek, Benjamin Zurek, Samuel Zurek, and Jacob Zurek; her grandchildren, Gavin, Evalynn, Scarlett, Mason, Makenna, Jason, Kaylie, Matthew, and Daniel; her siblings, Marc (Janet) Nurmi, Debra (Mark) Matheny, John (Mary) Nurmi, her mother-in-law, Bernice Zurek, her brothers-in-law, Mike (Marilyn) Zurek, Dennis (Noreen) Zurek, Mark Zurek, John Zurek, and Jeff Zurek; and her sister-in-law: Helen (Eric Holtrop) Zurek.  She was also loved by many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and friends.  Linda was preceded in death by her parents.

The Visitation will be held Tuesday, November 26, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville. The Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church, 14175 Farmington Road, Livonia.

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorial contributions to Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church , 14175 Farmington Road, Livonia, MI 48154 or YYO Ypsilanti Youth Orchestra , 13 N Washington St. Suite #138, Ypsilanti, MI 48197