Bruce A. Zellmer

Bruce A. Zellmer, formerly of Tomah, WI, passed away at his home after a short battle with cancer. Bruce was born to Alfred and Lillian Zellmer (Gerke) on January 2, 1942. Bruce graduated from Winona State University where he was also inducted into their Athletic Hall of Fame. He was drafted by the Detroit Lions and traded to the Minnesota Vikings. After his time in the NFL he spent 34 years as a research chemist with 3M. He retired from there and went to work at Prestwick Golf Club in Woodbury for 17 years where he spent time doing what he loved, golf and gardening. Bruce, and his true love Martha, had a zest for life. They brought out the best in each other. Being surrounded by family and friends were Bruce’s greatest joys. One could always find Bruce on the sidelines of one of his 11 grandchildren’s activities; attending their games, school events, theatre performances or helping them build their pinewood derby cars. Bruce was the proudest grandpa.

He is survived by his loving and caring wife of 23 years Martha, sons Matthew (Robin) and Jeffrey (Roxanne), his step son Brian (Jill) and step daughter Beth (Eric), his 11 grandchildren (Sam, Jack, Matt, Nick, Josh, Kyle, Rachel, Sara, Jacob, Ben, Natalie) and his brothers Duane of Seffner, FL and Gary (Paula) of Marshfield, WI.

Rest in peace Bruce. You will be greatly missed, never forgotten and always hold a special place in our hearts.

A celebration of life service is planned for a future date. In lieu of flowers, memorials would be appreciated to the American Cancer Society or Our Lady of Peace Hospice.