Elinor Josephine Zahn, 93, formerly of the Town of Williamstown, passed away on September 15, 2026, at Hope Senior Living in Lomira.
A funeral service for Elinor was held on Tuesday, Sept. 22, at 12 p.m. at St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Mayville with Rev. Dr. Mark G. Cutler officiating. A visitation for Elinor took place at church on Tuesday, Sept. 22, from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 12 p.m. Entombment took place at The Shrine of Rest Mausoleum in Fond du Lac.
Elinor was born on May 17, 1933, to George and Nora (Reese) Oechsner. On April 23, 1955, she was married to the love of her life, Glenn Zahn.
Elinor spent her life farming alongside her husband, Glenn, in the Town of Theresa. Together, they built a life rooted in hard work, faith, and family.
She was a devoted member of St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church, where she faithfully served on the altar guild and frequently helped prepare and serve funeral luncheons. Her willingness to lend a helping hand was a reflection of the caring and compassionate person she was.
Outside of her work and church activities, Elinor enjoyed quilting, playing cards, and bowling. She had a love for travel and cherished the opportunities to see new places and make memories along the way. Above all, Elinor treasured time spent with her family. The moments shared together, both big and small, were among her greatest joys.
Elinor will be remembered for her quiet strength, kindness, devotion to her faith, and the love she gave so freely to those around her. Her family and friends will carry with them the many wonderful memories of a life well lived and a woman who touched so many lives.
Elinor is survived by her daughter, Debbie (Rick) Gerlat; daughter-in-law, Patty (Kevin) Kasten; her grandchildren, Kristy (John) Zahn-Roecker, Cole (Lindsey) Zahn, Jamie (Chris) Martin, Jeremy (Tammy) Gassner, and Greg (Samantha) Gerlat; her great-grandchildren, Braleigh, Tenley, Lincoln, Rylee, Genna, Bentley, Gianna, and Oliver; her brother-in-law, Dave Waas; as well as nieces, nephews, other dear relatives and friends.
Elinor was preceded in death by her loving husband, Glenn, in 2022; her parents; her son, Dean; her son, Gary, in infancy; and her granddaughter, Ashley Gerlat.
Memorials in Elinor’s name can be directed towards St. John’s Childcare and Youth Center and SSM Hospice.
The Koepsell Funeral Home in Mayville is caring for the family www.Koepsellfh.com
