He was born January 20, 1934, in Mansfield, Ohio, to the late Ludwig and Christine (Hallabrin) Zahn. He married Phyllis Gordon in January of 1960, and they made countless memories in their lifetime. A master builder, he was the owner and operator of Zahn Construction and was instrumental in the construction of many buildings including the Mansfield Art Center, OhioHealth Surgery Center, and Women’s Care. His buildings have stood the test of time and are a reminder of the skill and care Fred exhibited in all his construction projects. He enjoyed socializing and was a longtime member of the Mansfield Liederkranz.
Fred was a member of Ontario United Methodist Church. He was athletic throughout his life and enjoyed playing golf and was a member of the Shelby Country Club for many years. His pitching skills were exceptional, and he enjoyed many years playing fast pitch softball. Fred also enjoyed watching sports, especially OSU football and tennis. However, his greatest joy was in watching his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren in their chosen sports.
Fred is survived by three children, Kim (Jim) Sorensen, Kelly (Eric) Smith and Ken (Jen) Zahn; eight grandchildren, Dr. Richard (Brittany) Bayer, Michael (Brittany) Bayer, Scott (Kait) Bayer, Matthew McNeill, Kyle McNeill, Mitchell Zahn, Mason Zahn and Jack Zahn; eight great-grandchildren, Ellie, Nora, Lucy, Marlowa, Bodie, Callahan, Kai and Hendrix Bayer; a step grandson, James Sorensen; three step granddaughters, Brittany (Mike) Wise, Hannah (Ed) Sharp and Hayley Smith; two step great-grandchildren, Carter Neumann and Kat Wise; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis Zahn and brother, Ron Zahn.
The family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at Wappner Funeral Directors-Ontario, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Road. The funeral service will be held in the funeral home on Thursday at 10:30 a.m. with Dr. Jeff Gordon officiating. He will be inurned in Mansfield Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
