Dr. Michael E. Zalar

Dr. Michael E. Zalar, O.D., age 57, of Carmichaels, Pennsylvania, passed away on Sunday November 17, 2024, after a courageous battle with glioblastoma, a brain tumor diagnosed on December 19, 2023. He was born on August 24, 1967, in Pittsburgh, PA, to the late Shirley Jean Watona Zalar married to Jim Zalar of Carmichaels. Michael was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Shirley, as well as his dear grandparents and uncle, George Smoody.

Michael graduated from Carmichaels Area Jr. Sr. High School in 1985, Washington and Jefferson College in 1989, and the Pennsylvania College of Optometry (O.D.) in 1993. He later earned specialized certification in Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty for glaucoma from the Oklahoma School of Optometry. Throughout his career, Michael was an active member, and briefly served as President of the West Virginia Optometric Physician Association, a member of the Pennsylvania Optometric Association, and the Maryland Optometric Association. His passion for patient care was evident in the comprehensive services he provided, from general optometry to therapeutic and diagnostic treatments for conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Michael was especially known for his sense of humor and his ability to engage his patients with colorful conversations that made them smile.

Over a 31-year career, Michael practiced in multiple states, including West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Maryland. He began his journey at Sterling Optical in Woodbridge, VA, co-owned Northern Virginia Eye Association, and later served as President and owner of For Your Eyes Only Optometrists, P.L.L.C. and MyEyeDr. in Bridgeport, WV. Despite his busy schedule, Michael was a devoted father and "road warrior," who made it a priority to visit his children bi-weekly in Leesburg, VA.

In July 2015, Michael reconnected with high school classmate Tracy (Ganocy) at his father’s 70th birthday celebration. The couple married on July 4, 2020, at The Chapel in the Woods at Graceland in Memphis, TN—a perfect setting for Michael, an Elvis Presley enthusiast, and Tracy enjoys the serenity of being in nature amongst the trees.

Michael was a long-time member of St. Hugh Catholic Church in Carmichaels, Cornerstone Chapel in Leesburg, VA, and Asbury Methodist Church in Uniontown, PA. His faith was important to him, and he worshiped wherever he felt moved by the message. In addition to his love for optometry, Michael had a passion for farming, spending time working on tractors with his life-long friend Dave Donaldson, planting gardens, grilling on his Big Green Egg, fishing and watching movies. Michael also enjoyed spending time with his aunt Marlene Smoody, going through old photos and treasures.  Michael's love and knowledge for hot peppers was legendary, and his ability to recall facts about Elvis with remarkable precision never ceased to impress those who knew him.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Tracy R. Zalar (Ganocy), his three children Kaitlyn Marie Zalar, Andrew Nicholas Zalar, and Jackson Leonard Zalar, all of Leesburg, VA and his father Jim Zalar and stepmother Paula Zalar of Carmichaels.  He is also survived by two stepchildren, Chelsee McFarland (Scott) of Lakewood, CO, and Shelbee McCann, who lived at home and was a constant source of support during his illness. Michael is also survived by his stepsister, Melissa Dlugos (James), nephew Matthew and niece Sophie and stepbrother Jim Jones (Lisa) and niece Cara. He is also survived by his parents-in-law Ken and Betty Ganocy and sister-in-law Shannon Adamson and nephews Ambrose and Aydan. Michael will be especially missed by his "fur kids," Mitzee, Presley, and Maggie.  The family wishes to express their deep gratitude for the overwhelming support and love they have received during this challenging time.

Family and friends are welcome from 6 to 8 p.m. on Saturday and 2 to 5 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Sunday in the Yoskovich Funeral Home, Martin J. Yoskovich, Funeral Director/Owner and Aaron S. Walker, Funeral Director, Carmichaels, Pa. where the funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 25, 2024 with Pastor Don Henderson officiating.  Interment will follow at Laurel Point Cemetery, Carmichaels.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Carmichaels Senior Citizens Center, Inc. P.O. Box 184, Carmichaels, PA 15320.