George Zahner Jr.

George Fred Zahner Jr. passed away Friday September 27th, 2024, surrounded by his loving family in Birmingham, AL.

George was born on December 14th, 1944, in Baltimore, MD, the son of the late George Fred Zahner Sr. and Mary Ethel Zahner. In addition to his parents, George was preceded in death by his grandmother, Anna Mary Hynson, all of Baltimore, MD.

George is survived by his wife of 57 years, Donna Mae Houck Zahner. He was a devoted husband and proud father to his four children: Kathy Ann Sykora, Kristina Lynn Ferrell (Matt), Steven Michael Zahner (Jennifer), and Stacy Marie Thornton (John). George loved his role as Pop-Pop to 11 grandchildren: Olivia, Madeleine, Claudia, Kristin, Timothy, Zachary, Brandon, Andrew, Alyssa, Grace, and Emily, and his 6 great grandchildren: Leo, Caroline, Piper, Adelaide, Elliot and Maren. He brought joy and laughter to all the family.

SFC George Zahner was a proud veteran of the US Army. He loved his country and displayed his love of country by collecting patriotic keepsakes, mostly eagles. George was a devout Catholic and a member of Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church in Birmingham, AL, and was formerly a member of St. John The Baptist Catholic Church in New Freedom, PA.

George was an adventurous spirit who enjoyed hunting, fishing, woodworking, bowling, and riding free on his Harley Davidson Trike. George was known for his outgoing personality and brought a sense of camaraderie and faith to everyone around him. He was extremely generous and often volunteered his free time for his family, friends, or anyone in need. His immeasurable talent and abilities were often on display as he could build or fix anything.

George had an impressive career with Lange Electric Company in Baltimore, MD. His career spanned 50 years and he proudly served in many roles, ending as Vice President of the company. His loyalty and work ethic is unmatched.

George had a passion for food and some of his favorites were steak, spaghetti, vanilla ice cream, and coconut custard pie. Food and family were a great combination for him. He leaves a great legacy of love and joyful memories, and he will be missed by all that knew him.

George (Sonny) Zahner will be laid to rest at a later date in the spring of 2025 at the Gardens of Faith, in Rosedale, MD. Online condolences may be sent to the Zahner family through our website at Southern Heritage Cemetery.

Update: George (Sonny) Zahner will be laid to rest on June 10, 2025 at the Gardens of Faith Cemetery in Rosedale, Maryland at 10:00 am.