Fred Ziegler

Fred Ziegler, 82, of Shawano, formerly of Appleton, passed away Thursday morning, July 30, 2020. Fred was born on the family farm near Appleton on Oct. 12, 1937, son of the late Edward and Linda (Plamann) Ziegler. On Aug. 23, 1958, he married Donna Birkholz; Donna preceded him in death in 2001 after 43 years of marriage.

Fred was the founder of a successful family business that continues to provide for three generations. In his retirement years, he was promoted to “family supervisor,” keeping an eye on all family matters. He was given the nickname of “Kodak Fred” for his amateur photography skills and prized cameras — Fred cherished his travels around the world with family and friends, and he was always ready to snap a picture.

He was also an amateur culinary connoisseur and aspiring sommelier, always boasting about his newest creation from Food and Wine Magazine. Fred was an expert Packer tailgater and part-time NFL analyst, always providing the most welcoming Lambeau tailgate experience to all. He was the most dedicated golfing buddy for many years, even when his score never improved. Those who knew him also knew that he was the proud fur grandpa to his “little men” — Bentley, 12; Ruger, 6; and Wego, 7.

Fred was always the traveler of “the road less traveled,” no matter where it would take him, and ultimately, Fred was the captain of his own ship.

Fred is survived by his daughter, Lynn (Nick) Lanser, of Appleton; two granddaughters, Nicole Swanton and Allison Swanton, both of Appleton; two step-grandsons. Joe Lanser and David Lanser; three brothers: Don Ziegler, of King, Phil (Bev) Ziegler, of Appleton, and Ken (Lorraine) Ziegler, of Appleton; a sister-in-law: Connie Birkholz; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Donna, in 2001; siblings, Leroy Ziegler, Bob (Ruby) Ziegler, June (Wally) Maass, Lola Jahnke, Jan Rohm and Carol Ziegler; his in-laws, Roman and Gladys Birkholz; sisters-in-law, Janice Thompson and Hazel Ziegler; and a brother-in-law, LaVerne Birkholz.

A visitation for Fred will be held Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2020, from 9-10:30 a.m. at the Wichmann Funeral Home, located at 537 N. Superior St. in Appleton. Of course, face coverings will be required, and social distancing will be observed. A private service for the immediate family will follow, and that service may be viewed by visiting Fred’s obituary page at www.wichmannfuneralhomes.com. The video stream will begin at 11 a.m.

Wichmann Funeral Home of Appleton is assisting the family.

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