William "Bill" Paul Zacharias

William “Bill” P. Zacharias, age 82, of Ripon, WI, died peacefully on Monday, April 17, 2023, at Maple Crest Manor in Ripon.

Bill was born on January 25, 1941 in Ripon, WI, son of Harold and Lucille (Laper) Zacharias. He married Faye Smith on May 27, 1961. Bill graduated from Markesan High School. After high school, he worked in the office at Fullerton Lumber Co., followed by various other employers throughout the years, including, Grand River Co-op and Markesan District Schools. He thoroughly enjoyed his position as the custodian of Markesan High School; he was loved by the staff and students and was referred to as “Grandpa”. Bill was involved in many organizations, including, a volunteer fireman in Fairwater, Village Board, Lions Club, an active member of Grace Lutheran Church where he sang in the choir and ushered, was on the Board of Parish Education and sang with the Ripon Harmony Kings.

Bill, Faye, the boys, and many of their neighbors spent countless summer days camping. They also cherished their time at Zacharias Island with family. Bill enjoyed playing cards, bowling, and watching all Wisconsin sports teams. He loved his snacks, especially M&M’s. Most of all he cherished time spent with his children and grandchildren; they were the highlight of his life. 

Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Faye Zacharias; sons, Tim and Dan (Vicky) Zacharias; grandchildren, Taylor, Kolton, Ambrea, Payton and Carter; great-grandchildren, Claytin, Jordan, Remington, and one on the way; brother, Rick (Jeanette) Zacharias; in-laws, Diane Zacharias, Elmer (Barb) Smith, Ruth Ann Smith, Linda (Jay) Taylor; god-daughter, Lu Ann Rosenau. He is preceded in death by his son, Thomas Zacharias; his parents, Harold and Lucille Zacharias; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Louis and Thelma Smith; his brother, Gerald Zacharias; and brother-in-law, Jim Smith.

Visitation for Bill will be held on Saturday, April 22, 2023 from 2:00-3:00 pm at Grace Lutheran Church, 430 W. Griswold St., Ripon, WI, 54971.

A funeral service for Bill will be held on Saturday, April 22, 2023 at 3:00 pm at Grace Lutheran Church, with Pastor Melissa Hrdlicka officiating. You may view a livestream of Bill's service via the link below. Interment will follow at Fairwater Cemetery, Fairwater, WI. Memorials in his name can be directed to Grace Preschool, 430 W Griswold St, Ripon, WI 54971.

Please visit www.ButzinMarchant.com to send online condolences.