Robert “Bob” Bradley Zettler, age 88, of Galion, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2025, following a courageous battle with cancer. Born July 21, 1937, to Louis and Frances Zettler, Bob was raised on Ohio Avenue in Columbus’s South End. He often reminisced fondly about his childhood, especially his days serving as an altar boy alongside his brother at St. John’s and his first job delivering bundles of newspapers to paperboys across Columbus - a humble beginning he remembered with pride.
A graduate of Aquinas High School, Bob also served in the United States Navy and earned a bachelor’s degree from Franklin University. His professional life was defined by leadership, service, and an unwavering commitment to helping others succeed. He served as Executive Director of the Miss Ohio Scholarship Program, President of the Mansfield Chamber of Commerce, and Vice President of Workforce Development at N.C.State. Later he continued his passion for mentorship and innovation through consulting.
Bob had a zest for life and a deep love for people. He was a devoted fan of Ohio State athletics and Cleveland sports teams, and he had a lifelong passion for baseball and live music. He proudly served on the Aspen Terrace Homeowners Association Board and enjoyed traveling, reading, storytelling—and a good practical joke. His kindness and light-hearted nature were as cherished as his integrity and warmth. He had a love for animals, especially the pets that shared his home over the years. Above all, Bob and his wife Geri adored each other and embraced life as an adventure. Their years together were filled with love, laughter, and experiences that brought them closer every step of the way.
Bob is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Geri Zettler; his children, Karen Zettler (Pete Specht), Michael Zettler (Janie Zettler), Jason Rupp (Serenity Rupp), Ryan Rupp (Claudius Christmas Jr.), and Robyn Hodge (Ben Hodge); his grandchildren, Samantha Zettler, Aubrey Zettler, Max Zettler, Nicholas Rupp (Amanda Rupp), Tyson Rupp, Jackson Rupp, Hailey Hodge and Hayden Hodge; and his great granddaughter, Clover Rupp. He is also survived by his beloved sister, Lois Zettler (Ray Smithberger).
He was preceded in death by his son, Chris Zettler; and his siblings, Edward Zettler and Mary Zettler.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Honor Flight Columbus at www.honorflightcmh.org.
He will be laid to rest at Mansfield Memorial Park during a private family graveside service. Wappner Funeral Directors-Ontario is honored to serve the Zettler family.
