Racine – Paul M. Zierk, Sr., 85, received the promise of eternal life on Monday, January 21, 2013. He was born in Racine on April 3, 1927, son of the late George and Viola (nee: Green) Zierk. He was the first baby to use the brand new incubator at St. Luke’s in Racine. He weighed only 2lbs 2-3/4 ounces and was a fighter his whole life. Paul was united in marriage to Joan V. (nee: Woodland) Zierk on September 8, 1956, in Waukegan, IL. Joan preceded him in death on July 8, 1999.
As a youngster, Paul enjoyed going to Milwaukee to watch and listen to the big bands play. It was an interest he would carry for the rest of his life. Most recently, he loved listening to the big band music on his new flat-screen TV. Paul proudly served his country as an ambulance driver with the United States Army during the Korean War. Paul was an excellent provider for his family. He was proud of being a life-long truck driver for Werner Continental, Inc. Paul had thirty years of service with no accidents. After his retirement, Paul became the full time caregiver for his wife of 42 years who was stricken with multiple sclerosis. He faithfully and dutifully cared for her for 13 years until her passing in 1999. Paul was a member of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church where he attended services every Sunday. He will be remembered by his family as a kind, loyal, and loving man. He always had a joke or a story to tell to brighten the day of those around him. Paul truly had a zest for life and was inspirational in the strength and perseverance he displayed while tackling all of life’s trials and tribulations.
Paul leaves to cherish his memory, his children, Paul (Wendy) Zierk of Franksville, Mark (Donna) Zierk of New London, Julie (Larry) Fuerstenau of Caledonia, Gregory (Bill Buettner) Zierk of West Bend; grandchildren, Evan and Blake Zierk of Franksville, Matthew and Michael Zierk of New London, Andrew and Jacob Fuerstenau of Caledonia; and brother-in-law, Robert Pavia of Phoenix, AZ. In addition to his parents and wife, Paul is preceded in death by his brother, George Zierk, Jr.; sister, Bonnie Pavia; and dear friend, Diane Danowski.
A funeral service will be celebrated on Friday, January 25, 2013, 12:00pm, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 7900 Nicholson Road, Caledonia, with Rev. David Wierschke officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00am until the time of the service. Burial will follow at West Lawn Memorial Park. Paul’s family has suggested memorials to Trinity Lutheran Church and School.
A special “Thank You” to the staff at DaVita Dialysis Center in Racine for their kind compassionate care of Paul these last five years.
Todd and Charlotte Markus says
Dear Paul Jr. and Family, Todd and I are so sorry for your loss. Your dad was a very big-hearted person and will be missed greatly. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Todd & Charlotte
Judy & George Maranger says
To all of my cousin, Paul’s family. Our deepest sympathy to all of you. Your dad was a fine man and will be missed. I received a Christmas card from him this year, which I will forever keep. He was the last of my cousins. We are deeply sorry for your loss. Judy (Hillerud)& George Maranger
Walt & Dene Zimmermann says
Dear Zierk Family, Please accept my sincere sympathy on the pasting of Paul Zierk, Sr. As a neighbor, and as the teacher for two of his children–Greg and Julie–I became well acquainted with Paul. He was a fine Christian man, husband and father.