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In Loving Memory of Mike Zárate
Obituary
Miguel "Mike" Arcángel Islas Zárate
September 29, 1945 – March 6, 2026
Miguel "Mike" Arcángel Islas Zárate, beloved husband, father, and respected leader in the corrugated packaging agriculture industry, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026, surrounded by his family in prayer. He was 80 years old.
Mike was born on September 29, 1945, in Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico. A dedicated student with a strong work ethic, he earned his accounting degree in Mexico before beginning a life defined by perseverance, leadership, and devotion to family.
In 1968, Mike married the love of his life, Cristina Fanghänel Rosas. Together they built a family rooted in faith, resilience, and commitment to one another.
In 1974, Mike moved to the United States to pursue new opportunities and began working in the corrugated box manufacturing industry. Through hard work, determination, and exceptional leadership, he rose through the ranks and became a respected figure in the field. He went on to manage the Weyerhaeuser box plant in Anaheim, California, where he earned the admiration of colleagues and industry partners alike. Over the decades, Mike became known not only for his deep knowledge of the industry but for his integrity, reliability, and the lasting relationships he built with those around him.
Above all else, Mike’s greatest pride was his family. He was a devoted father whose guidance, strength, and example shaped the lives of his children and grandchildren.
He is survived by his children: Karla Steele, Karime Richey, Karinna Zárate, and Miguel J. Zárate.
He was a proud grandfather to eight grandchildren:
Alexis Steele, Aunica Steele, James Steele, Jayse Richey, Karize Richey, Sergio Gomez, Karissa Gomez, and Gianna Gomez.
Mike was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Anthony and Athena, both one year old, who brought him great joy in the final chapter of his life.
To his family and those who knew him, Mike was a man of strength, wisdom, humility, and quiet generosity. His life was defined by perseverance, dedication to his craft, and unwavering commitment to providing for and supporting those he loved.
His family plans to hold a celebration of life later this year to honor the extraordinary life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind.
Mike Zárate’s extraordinary legacy lives on through his family, the values he instilled, and the many lives he touched throughout his long and meaningful life.
Letter from Karinna Zárate
It is with deep sadness that I share that my father, Mike Zárate, passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026, surrounded by our family in prayer.
Many of you knew Mike not only as a businessman, but as a trusted partner and friend over the many decades he spent serving this industry. Our family is deeply grateful for the relationships he built with so many of you.
Corrugated Containers Company will continue operating as usual. All existing agreements and commitments will be honored, and we remain fully dedicated to serving our customers and partners.
If you would like to speak with me directly regarding any ongoing business matters, I would be happy to arrange a one-on-one conversation.
In honor of Mike, we will continue the work and relationships he cared about so deeply. Thank you for your kindness, patience, and continued partnership during this time.
Karinna Zárate
Principal & Operations Director
Corrugated Containers Company, LLC
Honoring Mike Zárate's Legacy
1945-2026
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our founder, Mike Zarate, who passed away peacefully on March 6, 2026.
We invite you to learn more about the man whose hard work, integrity, and relationships helped build Corrugated Containers Company.