Robert J. Zirtzlaff, longtime resident of Grafton, died peacefully at McKinley Place in Cedarburg surrounded by his family on Tuesday, August 2, 2016 at the age of 87. Robert was born in the Town of Cedarburg on May 11, 1929 the son of the late Herman and Hedwig (Nee Runge) Zirtzlaff. On December 26, 1949 Robert was united in marriage to the late Esther (Nee Port). Robert was a long time active member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Grafton. Robert was a former pilot and artist. He also enjoyed hunting and loved telling stories and will be remembered for making people laugh.
Robert is survived by his children: Kenneth (Jo Ann) Zirtzlaff, Kristine Armendariz, Kevin (Bonnie) Zirtzlaff, Kurt (Dawn) Zirtzlaff, Kay (Mark) Ryder, Kyle (Michele) Zirtzlaff; daughter-in-law Joyce; grandchildren: Steven (Nicole) Armendariz, Robert Armendariz, Jennifer (Chris) Ruis, Zachry Zirtzlaff, Amy (Josef) Anderson, Justin (Angie) Zirtzlaff, Jim Baum, Matthew (fiancée Samantha) Zirtzlaff, Janelle Baum, Danielle (Curt) Hafemiester, Conner Ryder, Sean Ryder, Christian Zirtzlaff. Robert is further survived by 9 great grandchildren, other relatives and many friends. Robert was preceded in death by his wife Esther and a son Keith.
Funeral services will be held on Sunday, August 7, 2016 – 5:00 PM at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Grafton. Interment will be in St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be at the church on Sunday from 3:00 PM – 4:45 PM. Memorials to St. Paul Lutheran Church appreciated.
The family would like to give a special thank you to Home Instead, (Nancy, Steve and LaShara), McKinley Place and Horizon Hospice (Julie and Rebecca) for their loving care, compassion, and friendship.