Jeffrey L. Zillmer, age 72 of Marion, passed away early Wednesday morning, April 1, 2026 at Froedtert & Medical College of Wisconsin, Wauwatosa, surrounded by his family.
Jeffrey Lee Zillmer, born August 1, 1953, in Clintonville, Wisconsin, was the son of the late Wilbert “Willie” and Patricia “Pat” (Mitchell) Zillmer. He was raised on the Zillmer family farm, where he developed the strong work ethic that stayed with him throughout his life.
Jeff proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1972 to 1974. During his time as an active-duty rifleman, he was stationed in Sicily, where he guarded the U.S. Embassy. His service earned him the National Defense Service Medal and the Expert Shooting Badge. He continued his commitment to the military in the Marine Corps Reserves until 1978.
After returning to civilian life, Jeff remained deeply involved in his community through both his work and volunteer efforts. He was employed at Marion Feed & Grain and Marion Milling before dedicating 23 years to the Waupaca County Highway Department, where he eventually retired. Jeff also served for many years as a volunteer firefighter for the City of Marion. He was an active member of William Bertram American Legion Post #198 and St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Dupont.
On October 6, 1984, Jeff married the love of his life, Donna Mae Suehring. He was a devoted husband and family man who took great pride in supporting his stepchildren, Sue and Jim.
In his spare time, Jeff found joy working in his garage, cheering on the Brewers and Packers, and spending time outdoors. He had a special fondness for nature and especially enjoyed feeding birds and ducks. Known for his friendly and easygoing personality, Jeff treasured time spent with friends around town.
Jeff is survived by his sister, Peggy (John) Davis; brothers, Bruce (Kris) Zillmer and Kelly (Patty) Zillmer; stepdaughter, Sue Schmidt; stepgrandson, Justin Schmidt; stepson, Jim (Nancy) Otto; nieces, Kasey Buss, Kyla (fiancé Evan Petrie) Zillmer, Kelsey Zillmer, and Katie (Jeff) Olson; and nephews, Willis (Angela) Buss and Scott (Jodi) Zillmer.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Donna; his father-in-law, John Suehring; and his brother-in-law, David (Harriet) Suehring.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Dupont, with Rev. Karen Reimer officiating. Inurnment with military honors will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Roseland Cemetery in the Town of Dupont. Military honors will be conducted by William Bertram American Legion Post #198 of Marion.
Visitation will take place at the church on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Jeff’s name may be directed to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church for the building addition project or to the Wounded Warrior Project.
The Eberhardt-Stevenson Funeral Home & Crematory of Marion is assisting the Zillmer family.
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