34 Banfield Street

Michael Zell

Michael Zell was born in Calgary 21 May 1914. He was still living in Calgary when he volunteered to serve during World War II, he is believed to have been 26 years old, he also had two small sons at the time. He served from 1944 to 1946. Michael’s service would take him to Dieppe, then mostly Holland.

Michael is described as a proud man who loved his country. While overseas, he mailed home his Bulova watch, which was a gift from his wife. The family still holds the watch, and it continues to work today.

Michael married his wife Mary in 1937, the separation during the war was hard for her. Though, when Michael was returning home, Mary knew someone who worked for CP Rail, and was given the time that the Michael’s train would be arriving in town. At 4:00 am she gathered her two sons (4 and 6 at the time), dressed them in matching outfits, and took them to the train platform to surprise Michael when he arrived.

The Zell family moved to Paris in 1950, where Michael was the manager at the former Muttart Builders Supply for 40 years. Both Zell parents were proud citizens of Paris, belonging to the Lions Club, and the United Church. Michael was a member of the Board of Trade, and the Masons. He was also the chair of the Christmas Hampers.