Zachary "Zach" A. Bazer

Zachary “Zack” A. Bazer, born December 8, 1960, in Omaha, Nebraska, was the youngest child of Raymond K. Bazer and Joann L. Hubbell. Despite his losses and struggles with addiction, he lived his life with love for his family and others, while fighting for his faith. His life peacefully came to a close while surrounded by family, as he succumbed to cancer on March 14, 2025, at the age of 64.

Zack’s early years were shaped by profound loss. After his parents’ divorce, he and his siblings lived with their mother until her tragic death in a car accident when Zack was just 4 years old. The children then moved in with their father, where life grew challenging due to his father’s addiction to alcohol. Zach would end up living with his oldest sister Penny. Further heartbreak followed when his sister, Penny L. Fuller, and her infant child died in a car accident. Zach was only 10 years old. Two years later, Zack also lost his brother, Timothy M. Bazer, to leukemia.

Despite these hardships, Zack grew into a charismatic and handsome man with a resilient spirit. He fell deeply in love with Kristi Kellogg, and together they welcomed four children: Penny L. Kellogg, Heather A. Kellogg, Zachary A. Kellogg, and Jason M. Kellogg. Zack’s free-spirited nature combined with his trauma would eventually lead him to his own struggles with addiction to drugs and alcohol. His fight with addiction would be the cause of separation from Kristi and his children. Although his love for his family never wavered, this was yet another devastating loss.

In adulthood, Zack survived a near-fatal motorcycle accident that claimed his friend’s life, leaving him with lasting health challenges. Yet he faced recovery with humor and faith, always striving to lift others’ spirits. A lifelong wanderer, he traveled by foot, bicycle, motorcycle—any means that fed his adventurous soul. He charmed neighbors and strangers alike, earning a reputation as a bit ornery yet endearing and as a collector of antiques, trinkets, and knick-knacks—each item more unique than the last.

Zack’s generosity knew no bounds. He would gladly give his last dollar or the shirt off his back to someone in need. He would talk to anyone and everyone. His witty character and clever one-liners allowed him to make friends and leave a lasting impression wherever he went. His love for people was evident in every interaction. He cherished his family and friends, especially his children and grandchildren.

Zach fought to keep his faith in the mist of his struggles. His life is a testament to Gods love and ultimate redemption. Zach often shared phrases like, “Has someone told you they loved you today? Jesus loves you every day!" Children and animals loved him because he had a kind and sweet spirit, one that will be missed by many now that he’s returned home with the Lord.

Zack was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond K. Bazer and Joann L. Hubbell; sister, Penny L. Fuller; and brothers, Timothy M. Bazer, Raymond E. Bazer, and William W. Harper Jr. He is survived by his children, Penny L. (Ernesto) Marquez, Heather A. Kellogg, Zachary A. (Stefanie) Kellogg, and Jason M. Kellogg; nine grandchildren: Brittany M. Torres, John M. Bartolo, Austin N. Bartolo, Houstin O. Kellogg, Aaliyah S. Simpson, Levi S. Kellogg, Kendall C. Kellogg, Oliver A. Kellogg, and Madelyn M. Kellogg; and one great-grandchild, Hunter A. Bartolo.

Zack’s life was a testament to the type of perseverance, faith, and love that transcends circumstances. Though he was the last surviving member of his immediate family, his legacy lives on through the joy he shared, the lives he touched, and the unwavering hope he carried. The words he would often say in life ring even more true now that he is gone:

“This isn't goodbye, it’s see you later.”

A Celebration of Life will be held at Westlawn-Hillcrest Funeral Home, March 20, 2025, beginning at 10am. The viewing will be held March 19, 2025, from 4pm-8pm.

We want to honor Zack’s memory through acts of kindness, generosity, or a heartfelt reminder of love to those around you.