Obituaries

Lewis Bernard Zenke

March 30, 1944 - October 08, 2024

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Obituary For Lewis Bernard Zenke

Lewis Bernard Zenke, age 80, passed away on October 8, 2024, at William S. Middleton, Memorial Veterans’s Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was born on March 30, 1944, to Harold and Clara (Schey) Zenke at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, WI. Lewis married Carol McGowan on December 3, 1966, in Chicago, IL.

Lewis joined the USMC. He was station at Great Lakes Naval academy in Chicago, followed by Camp Pendleton in Sandiego CA, prior to heading to Vietnam where he served two tours. After Lewis left the USMC, he joined the US Army National Guard. He was proud of his service to his country.

Lewis worked in construction for many years. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, hunting, fishing and watching western and war movies. Lewis especially enjoyed spending time with his family, time at the cabin and cooking.

Lewis is survived by his wife; four children, Barb (Mark) Jackson, Duane Zenke, Julie (Jason) Grunewald, Lisa (James) Gayton; grandchildren, Mitchell (Rena) Jackson, Brandon Jackson, Nicolas Miller, Ryan Zenke, Zachary Grunewald; greatgrandchild, Saanvi Jackson; brother, Erwin Zenke and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Edwin Zenke and Cathrine Zenke.

The family would like to thank the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital for their care.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers memorial can be made out to the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin. https://www.cdceportal.va.gov/donate_online/

To view and sign this guestbook please visit www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Ryan Funeral Home & Cremation Services

Windsor/DeForest Chapel

6924 Lake Road

608-846-4250

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Condolences

  • October 24, 2024

    Lisa Johnson

    From your old neighbors, The Johnson family, we are so sorry for your loss. Both Greg and Jackie have walked on, as well. Hopefully they will all meet up and have one together, reminiscing about old times.

  • October 14, 2024

    Grunewald Julie

    Dad, Every day without you has been hard, I can't help but think how much I wish you were here with us. We're going to miss you! You always believed in me and encouaged me to do my best. I will cherish all the memories we made while you helped me with projects, and all of us have funny stories of you that will stay with us forever. So, through our tears, let us see the blessings of knowing and loving you – a great man, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend. Remembered with love your daughter Julie

  • October 10, 2024

    Jason Grunewald

    Lew was a great man. Sometimes there are no words for a loss so great. May happy memories help lessen our sorrow during these difficult days. Jason Grunewald

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Tiffany Foster went out of her way to fulfill all my requests, talked me through problems I was facing, and tried to make me feel as comfortable as possible when I was a wreck, totally crushed, and I thank her with all of my heart for that.

James S. | July 2020

The professional manner of the staff made a difficult time a little easier.

Lynda R. | July 2020

Services provided for both parents were perfect, on time, and no issues. Brenda is awesome and strong!

Michael M. | July 2020

Skyler was absolutely amazing. She was so caring and helpful through this whole process. She even went above and beyond to meet with us in DeForest and even to make a stop at our home to drop off or pick up anything needed. While it was a small gesture, it was so helpful and greatly appreciated.

Brooke S. | Dec. 2020

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