For much of his public working career, Daniel drove contract routes across the country for FedEx—work that reflected his steady determination and willingness to go the distance, day after day. Those miles suited his adventurous spirit, and they also spoke to the quiet pride he took in doing a job well.
Daniel was a blessing and tremendously loved by his family. He had a way of drawing people in with warmth and humor—someone who could make others feel at ease, and who seemed to understand what people needed, often before they said a word. More than anything, he was beloved for the kindness he carried into everyday moments, the compassion he showed without fanfare, and the thoughtful way he paid attention to the people and creatures entrusted to his care.
He had a passion for soccer and also enjoyed “Ultimate Frisbee,” bringing the same energy and good-natured spirit to play that he brought to life. Gifted with a personality that endeared him to people, he could “sell ice to an Eskimo,” not through pressure, but through charm, wit, and an instinct for connection.
Daniel also had a tremendous “green thumb.” He could tend to beautiful and bountiful gardens and loved the time that he spent committed to making things beautiful. With an eye for envisioning the finished product long before the project started, he approached what he built and grew with intelligence, creativity, and exceptional perception—seeing possibility where others saw only the beginning.
Daniel loved people. He adored his nieces and nephews, and he always had a special heart for animals—an extension of the gentle, kind-hearted way he moved through the world. His legacy lives on in the laughter he sparked, the care he gave, the beauty he cultivated, and the love he left in the lives of those who knew him best.
Daniel is survived by his father, John Raymond Zika; his mother, Karen Ruth Reeder Zika; his brothers, Derek Zika and Isaac Zika (Julie); his sister, Abigail Wise; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Services for the memorial of Daniel Zika will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2026 at West Charleston Church of the Brethren, 4817 OH-202, Tipp City, Ohio beginning with music and sharing at 10:00 a.m. and followed by both a memorial service at 11:30 a.m. and lunch with reception at 1:15 p.m.
An additional memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2026 at Grace Alliance Fellowship, 773 Mocksville Highway, Statesville with music beginning at 2:00 p.m. and the service following at 2:30 p.m. Afterwards, a reception with fellowship will be held at The Upper Room of Statesville, 129 West Broad Street, Statesville from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Food and refreshments will be served.
For both services, it is not necessary to let us know you will be attending; however if you do let us know that you plan to attend, it will help us with our planning and preparations.
You can text these numbers regarding plans to attend:
Karen Zika -- 704-450-9162
John Zika -- 704-450-9172
Isaac Zika -- 704-450-4045
Abigail Wise -- 937-451-0330
Messages of sympathy and words of condolences may be shared with the family online at www.bunchjohnsonfuneralhome.com
Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the care of Daniel and his family.
