Joseph Frank Zeman Jr.

Joseph Frank Zeman, Jr., aged 75, passed away in Colorado Springs on August 4th, 2024 surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer. Known affectionately as Joe, he was born on New Year's Day, January 1, 1949, to Joseph and Marian (Burris) Zeman in Spring Valley, Illinois. Joe was a loving husband and father, lifelong learner, musician, and Human Resource professional, whose warmth and dedication touched all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Joe was a gifted guitar player, songwriter and singer, whose love for music resonated in every note he played. Joe’s music brought joy and cherished memories to family, friends, and anyone who had the pleasure of hearing him sing and play guitar. His high school and college band the “Sounds of Fury” won first place in Battle of the Bands in 1967 at the Mendota Sweet Corn Festival, and second place in another Battle of the Bands that landed them a gig with the Grateful Dead. In his post-band days, he enjoyed playing music most for his family and through volunteer concerts and music at retirement homes and children’s hospitals.

Beyond his musical talents, Joe was a dedicated HR professional, with a remarkable career spanning more than five decades. He was lovingly nicknamed the Godfather of Career Services for his unwavering commitment and knowledge. His last position at IntelliTec College, where he provided career coaching and helped students find positions, was particularly meaningful to him, highlighting his lifelong dedication to helping others.

Joe was also an avid learner, with an undergraduate degree in Political Science from Northern Illinois University and a Masters Degree in Labor and Industrial Relations from University of Illinois. Additionally, he pursued multiple professional certifications throughout his career. He loved sharing his knowledge as an adjunct professor at Webster University, inspiring many with his passion for education and self improvement. His enthusiasm for learning and teaching was a hallmark of his character, instilling in his daughters a deep dedication to hard work, knowledge, and lifelong learning.

Joe is survived by his devoted wife of 45 years, Brenda Zeman; his two daughters Genevieve (Landon) Benson and Natalie (Andrew) Clopper; his sister, Janet (Jack) Haremski; his brother, Mike (Deb) Zeman; and his three cherished granddaughters, Claire and Vail Benson and Cora Clopper. His family will continue to honor his memory by embracing the values he lived by and the music he loved. Joe’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of Joe’s life will be held on Tuesday August 27th at 1pm at Swan Law Funeral Home, where family and friends will gather to share stories, listen to his favorite songs, and remember the incredible man he was.