Zettel, John C.
On December 18, 2018 John C. Zettel passed away peacefully at the age of 89 following a brave battle with cancer.
John's beloved wife Jean (Loftus) passed away in 2016. They were married May 21, 1949 and shared a long and loving life together with their 8 children, Linda (Bob), Maureen (Larry), Patricia, Susanne (David), Carolyn (Frank), John (Kim), William (Penelope) and Jim (Catherine). Their children relied on their father's compassionate wisdom and unwavering support.
John is also lovingly remembered by 20 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren, all of whom adore their grandfather's kind and gentlemanly ways.
John was the son of the late Alexander and Florence (Halter) Zettel and was predeceased by his four brothers, Wilfred, Roland (Babes), Matthew and Elmer.
John's many relatives and friends also relied on his quiet strength and guidance. He would often tell humorous stories about his experiences especially back in a time when being resourceful and sharing the load was a daily requirement for everyone.
After the farm John began his career as a Millwright and worked more than one job at a time to support his family throughout his earlier years. He spent 47 years in charge of machinery maintenance at Kuntz Electroplating and initiated programs including an Environmental Protection Program and an Emergency First Response Unit. Jean’s Accounting and Bookkeeping business was always supported by John as the family continued to grow.
John received the Governor General's award for his volunteer work on the Maryhill Fire Department where he served for decades. John and Jean were also recognized for their many years committed to the Maryhill Historical Society, Maryhill School Trusteeship, Maryhill Knights of Columbus and they were lifetime members and contributors to the St. Boniface RC Parish in Maryhill.
John truly enjoyed rebuilding antique cars and he and Jean were often seen driving around town enjoying their collection. The "car barn" at home was a haven to all his antique car folk. It was quite normal for the driveway to be backed up with Model A cars of all sizes and colours. John had a special relationship with Jeff Dupuis, Fred Zenger, the Maryhill community and many more friends especially in the Historical Automobile Society of Canada and we thank them for their daily kindness.
Thanks also go out to Dr. Timmons and Dr. Knight and the GRH Nursing staff on the 6th Floor, A Wing Oncology Unit for all their support and care.
John's family will receive relatives and friends from 1:30-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. on Friday, December 21, 2018 at the Henry Walser Funeral Home, 507 Frederick Street, Kitchener, 519-749-8467. Prayers 3 p.m. Friday. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Boniface RC Church, 1354 Maryhill Rd., Maryhill, on Saturday, December 22, 2018 at 10 a.m. Interment St. Boniface Cemetery. Reception to follow at Ariss Valley Golf and Country Club, 5700 Wellington County Road 86. As expressions of sympathy, donations to the St. Boniface Church Fund or the Grand River Hospital Foundation - Cancer Centre would be appreciated by the family (cards available at the funeral home).
Visit www.henrywalser.com for John's memorial.