Elmer William Zenner

Elmer William Zenner, a beloved member of the Kingsley community, passed away peacefully at the age of 91 in his home on July 24, 2023. He was born on November 9, 1931, on the family farm in Blair Township to his late parents, Edward and Marcella Zenner. Growing up as one of fifteen children on the family farm, Elmer had a tight-knit and loving family. After finishing school, Elmer joined the US Army and bravely served his country during the Korean War. He was honored to be a part of the honor guard at Arlington National Cemetery, a duty he carried out with great pride. When he returned from the military, Elmer married the love of his life, Lucille Rahe, on November 10, 1956, in a beautiful ceremony at St. Mary of Hannah Catholic Church. They shared a deep and enduring love throughout their life together. Elmer was a hardworking man and spent 34 years at Traverse City Iron Works before retiring from Mascotech Stamping Technologies in 1995. But that wasn't all – he was also a skilled farmer and ran Zenner Farms from 1968 to 2020. In his younger days, Elmer was quite the sports enthusiast. He played baseball and even boxed during his time in the service. But he also knew how to have fun during his free time. He enjoyed visiting the casino, collecting license plates and coins, and listening to country music. He had a special love for dancing to polka music and was an avid Nascar fan as well. Family meant the world to Elmer, and he cherished every moment spent with them. He especially loved cheering on his grandchildren at their sporting events, musicals, plays, recitals, and band events, always with a smile on his face. One thing that will always be remembered about Elmer is his sense of humor. He was known for being a jokester and loved to play pranks on his friends and family. His signature laugh and mischievous smirk would brighten up any room. Elmer William Zenner will be dearly missed by all who knew him. His kindness, laughter, and love for life will forever remain in our hearts. Elmer is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years Lucille; children: Michele (Bill) Fox, Cheri (Chuck) Mikowski, Craig (Sharon) Zenner, Jeff (Sheila) Zenner, and Bruce (Noni) Zenner; grandchildren: Greg (Marie), Cassandra (Mark), Sarah (Mike), Bruce Allen (Jessy), Becca (Jon), Ashley (Steve), Ryan, Lindsey (Joey), Kayley (Cody), Brandon, Courtney, Nate, Jake, and Zack; 13 great grandchildren; siblings: Carl, Dan (Donna), Rosie Schmitz, Marian Klisanac, Jim (Sue), Rich (Gay), and Roy (Benny); and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings: Lavern (Jean), Clarence (Aletha), Doris (Paul) Benefield, Ralph (Bonnie), Albert (Etta), Margaret (Gerald Reamer & Bill Lovely), and Lyle (Sue). Visitation will be from 4-8pm on Friday, July 28, 2023 at St. Mary of Hannah Catholic Church. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00am on Saturday, July 29, 2023 with final visitation beginning at 10:00am at St. Mary of Hannah Catholic Church. Burial will take place in St. Mary of Hannah Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Elmer’s name to St. Mary of Hannah Catholic Church. Arrangements have been entrusted to Kalkaska Funeral Home.

Elmer William Zenner

November 9, 1931 - July 24, 2023