Ronald M. Zitzlsperger's Obituary
Ronald M Zitzlsperger, Zitz to friends and family, died peacefully July 13, 2019 with family by his side.
Zitz was born September 22, 1941 to Joseph and Catherine Zitzlsperger in Denison, Iowa. He graduated from Denison High School and from the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls, Iowa with a teaching degree in English and Speech. On June 1, 1968, he married the love of his life, Mary M. “Bunni” Nicklaus. Together they made their home in Decatur, Illinois where they both had teaching careers.
His passion was communication. Though he was most articulate, he had an uncanny way of getting others to talk. He often said of an individual, “There is a story in him/her”. And his skill was to draw it out. In addition to conversing with others, he loved to read and write and tell stories – of which he was a master. Another strong interest was acting as he had a background in this from his Ames, Iowa teaching days. Acting sparked a life long interest in movies and plays.
Zitz also loved to travel. He and Bunni would frequently take off for points unknown in the car. Two-lane roads were his first choice and frequent stops to investigate and meet new people was the plan. They did travel internationally to China, Russia, Eastern Europe and an Alaskan cruise.
Zitz was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers Eugene and wife Mary, Wilford, Clarence, and sister Bernice and husband Hookie. He is survived by his wife Bunni, brothers Bob and Wayne and numerous nieces and nephews.
Bunni and family would like to convey a special thank you to the doctors, nurses and tech staff on the 4th floor of St. Mary’s Hospital. Their kindness and concern will be forever treasured. A special thank you to Father Nick and Sister Anne for their spiritual guidance. A heartfelt thank you to all friends and family for the thoughts and prayers as we navigated these final weeks and days.
Memorials can be made to Covenant House or a charity of your choice.
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