Michael "Mike" Joseph Jakubisin , 71, of Winter Park, Florida passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, January 1st, 2026 in Winter Park.

He was born in Akron, Ohio on July 16, 1954 to Paul Edward Jakubisin and Patricia Anne (Tobin) Jakubisin . A graduate of Bishop Moore High School, Michael earned his Bachelor of Arts at The University of Arizona, and his Master of Education at Wheaton College. From there, he served as Refugee Camp Manager working with Vietnamese refugees for World Relief in Hong Kong. It was there that he met and married his beloved wife of 39 years, Linda Gonschor Jakubisin , who was the coordinator of children's education in the camp school.

As a young couple, Michael and Linda began their family in Orlando before moving to Linda's native home of Hannover, Germany. There he learned German and taught English. Wherever life took him, Michael embodied his calling to teach and learn. Education was not only his vocation, but his passion. One of his proudest accomplishments was the twenty six years he served the Lake Highland Preparatory School community in Orlando, Florida. He is fondly remembered by his colleagues and the thousands of students whose lives he touched for his thoughtful, wise, and compassionate leadership. Following his retirement in 2019, Michael and Linda moved to Nashville, Tennessee, where they welcomed their first grandchild in July, 2020. They provided full time childcare, and spent three beautiful years in Nashville before returning to Central Florida.

Mike will be remembered for his quiet strength, steadfast loyalty, humility, and love. A seeker at heart, he led with curiosity and believed uncertainty could be a pathway to deeper spirituality. His faith, which began in the Catholic tradition, was enriched by wisdom from many paths and remained a lifelong source of reverence that culminated in his participation in the Center for Action and Contemplation's Living School. Deeply contemplative and attentive to the sacred in everyday life, Mike found great joy in nature and quiet beauty, especially through travel, national parks, kayaking, and long road trips. He was a devoted volunteer at the Orlando Wetlands, where he enthusiastically shared his knowledge of native flora and fauna with visitors from around the world.

Michael was a devoted and steadfast husband, supportive and loving father, proud and encouraging father-in-law, and deeply engaged and hands-on grandfather (Opa) to his four grandchildren in whom he delighted endlessly. He was joyfully anticipating the birth of his fifth grandchild, expected by Janek and Sarah in February 2026.

He is preceded in death by his father, Paul Jakubisin ; and his sister, Mary Lou Fess.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Gonschor Jakubisin ; his son, Janek Jakubisin (Sarah Hoose); and daughters, Mia (Zach) Anderson and Emily Jakubisin ; his grandchildren, Juniper, Amelie, Oaks, and August; his mother, Patricia Jakubisin ; his brothers, Timothy (Mary Ellen), Stephen (Tricia), and Thomas (Heather) Jakubisin ; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Michael lived with grace and strength. His life leaves a lasting legacy of curiosity, compassion, and hopeful faith–one that continues to guide and inspire all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

If you feel led, please join us in honoring Michael's life and legacy by donating to the Center for Action and Contemplation , Friends of the Orlando Wetlands , or St. Richard's Community Garden (please select "Facilities Donation"  and specify "Community Garden" in the memo).

Michael's family would appreciate any stories, memories, or thoughts you feel led to share below. Your words are so meaningful to them as they mourn this tragic loss.