John E. Zenner, of Elkhorn, born in Des Plaines, Ill., on July 19, 1937, was called to his eternal home on Sunday April 7, 2013.
He began his business career as a manufacturer’s representative and advanced his career to become CEO of LinMot, a world leader in industrial linear motors. He was an inventor and held several U.S. patents. He was an active member of Calvary Community Church of Williams Bay serving the Lord in many ways. He also volunteered a great deal of time to the community and youth-oriented activities such as PTA, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and Harborside Academy High School. He had a great love of cars, racing, and nature, which he passed on to his children and grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife Diana Mae Zenner; his sisters and brother Mary (Harold) Webster, Tom (the late Donna) Zenner, Chris (Larry) Litwin; his children Steve Zenner, Debbie (Terry) Tubb, Karen Wambold, Ryan (Karen Ruth) Grace and Chad (Tamara) Grace; ten grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
He was preceded by his parents Walter J. & Mildred (Milroy) Zenner and his stepmother Lois Zenner.
Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Friday April 12, 2013, at Calvary Community Church in Williams Bay. Friends may visit with the family from 4-7 p.m. Thursday at Calvary Community Church and from 10 a.m. until time of service Friday.
In lieu of other expressions of sympathy the family suggests memorials to Agape House Ministries in Walworth, Children’s World Impact-Haiti Orphans, or Calvary Missions-India.
Toynton’s Walworth Funeral Home is assisting the Zenner family.
I had the privilege of being the FedEx Ground Driver for Mr. John Zenner. John was always friendly and joking with me when delivering or picking up at his home / business. Although for the past few years I personally haven’t been handling the Elkhorn Route I have missed seeing John and his family. I remember John jokingly telling me he will have to pay for his new driveway for many years. John was always happy and friendly with me which made my delivery and pickup experiences something that I looked forward to. I miss John but will always cherish the fond memories of our little time together. My Sympathies to Diana and John’s entire home and work families.
Sincerely,
Bob Stenberg ( FedEx Ground Independent Contractor )