Earl Eugene Zellmer

Earl Eugene Zellmer, 91, of Bedford, Texas, passed away peacefully at home on January 5, 2025, with his loving family by his side. Earl was born December 11, 1933, in Riesel, Texas, where he was raised and graduated from Riesel High School in 1952.

Earl proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1954 to 1958 aboard the USS John W. Thomason (DD-760). After his military service, Earl began a 40-year career with TP&L (later TU Electric Company), starting in Waco, Temple, Elgin, Athens, Brownwood, Hillsboro, and retired as a dedicated employee in Temple, Texas, in 1992. After retirement, Earl worked for Ryder Transportation System retiring after 17 dedicated years. His hobbies included fishing, traveling, listening to Southern Gospel Music, and watching his grandkids grow and play sports. He was a member of Memorial Baptist Church, Temple Texas, serving on several committees.

Earl is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Betty Lou Cagle Zellmer, and his children, David Zellmer (spouse Cheryl) and Keith Zellmer (spouse Rhonda). He was a devoted grandfather to his four grandchildren, Zachary Zellmer (spouse Haley), Colton Zellmer, Collin Zellmer (spouse Olivia), and Cassidy Zellmer (fiancé Azaya Patrick), and took great joy in his three great-grandchildren, Carter Zellmer, Levi Zellmer, and Holland Zellmer.

Earl was predeceased by his parents, Wilhelm “William” and Clara Gorgas Zellmer, as well as his three brothers, Karl, Julius “Bud”, and Chris Zellmer. Raised by his strong and resilient mother after his father’s passing during Earl’s infancy, he grew up on the family farm, embracing the values of hard work and perseverance during challenging times.

Earl’s life was marked by unwavering dedication to his family, a strong work ethic, and a love for his community. He will be remembered for his kindness, humility, and the legacy of love and strength he leaves behind.

A celebration of Earl’s life will be held at 2:30 p.m., Monday, January 13, 2025, at Scanio-Harper Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. that morning. Burial will follow the funeral at Bellwood Memorial Park Cemetery in Temple, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Texas Oncology Foundation.

Earl Zellmer’s memory will remain a treasured blessing to all who knew and loved him.