Michael "Fats" R. Zaksek, age 66, of Uniontown, PA, died peacefully on Tuesday, June 12, 2012, surrounded by his family.

He was born on July 16, 1945 in Uniontown, Fayette Co., Pa., son of Andrew Zaksek and Anna (Kauchuk) Zaksek

"Fats" was a member of St. Mary (Nativity) Catholic Church, where he attended elementary school. He graduated from North Union High School Class of 1963.

"Fats" was a veteran of The United States Army, and Army Reserve during the Vietnam War. Throughout his lifetime he was a member of The National Rifle Assoc., Trappers Association of America, Fairbank Rod and Gun Club, and many various organizations. He loved to hunt, fish, and trap with family members and friends.

"Fats" owned and operated "The Disco Palace" (former Village Barn) Hopwood, Pa. The Disco attracted hundreds from the Tri-State area. The dancehall was known for its dance floor that was lit with various flashing lights. "Fats", also owned and operated Strawberry Kingdom, Butler, Pa. He enjoyed selling and working in the fresh fruit and vegetable business his entire life, and had been employed in the produce depts. of Shop & Save and Pechin Markets. He spent many years painting and selling firewood, and for 28 years was part owner of Firewood Unlimited. "Fats" enjoyed going to flea markets to buy or sell, where he spent time talking to friends, and also going to the casinos. He acquired much knowledge of how to do things in his life and used them to help others. His grandchildren brought him many smiles and countless hours of enjoyment. A gift of telling stories both humorous and true will be sadly missed by his family and friends.

Michael "Fats" was preceded in death by his parents, Andrew and Anna (Kauchuk) Zaksek; and two very special aunts, Mary Kauchuk and Sophia Kauchuk.

Surviving are his daughters, Michelle Zaksek of Uniontown, Pa., Barbara Zaksek of Shady Grove, Lemont Furnace, Pa., and Stephanie Zaksek of Uniontown, Pa.

"Fats" is also survived by friend and former wife, Linda Zaksek; 6 grandchildren, Joshua Mitchell, Caitlin Mitchell, Peyton Mitchell and Moira Mitchell all of Uniontown, Pa., Rae Lynn Zaksek of Shady Grove, Lemont Furnace, Pa., and Justina Matthews of Mt. Independence, Pa., a great-granddaughter, Lola Mikluscak, 3 brothers, Andrew Zaksek of Uniontown, Pa., Nicolas Zaksek and wife Barbara of Mt. Pleasant, Pa., Kenneth Zaksek of West Leisenring, Pa., and a sister, Marlene Goodwin of Uniontown, with whom he made his home; and several nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

The family extends sincere and heartfelt thanks to Jessica, Pat, and Elaine of Fayette Home Care; and Father Stephen R. Bugay, Pastor, Organist and Choir, and Lazarus Ministry of St. Mary (Nativity) Church.

Friends will be received at the Stephen R. Haky Funeral Home, Inc., 603 N. Gallatin Ave., Ext., Uniontown, Pa. on Friday from 2-9; and on Saturday, from 11 a.m. until 6:30 p.m.

A Blessing Service will follow at 6:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Father Stephen R. Bugay Officiating.

Interment will be held at St. John the Baptist Byzantine Cemetery, Hopwood, Pa., where military honors will be accorded by AMVETS Post 103.

The Parish Wake Service will be held on Friday afternoon at 4 p.m.

Your personal written tributes and memories are welcomed and encouraged at www.hakyfuneralhome.com