Obituary: Wilford B. Zeamer

Wilford B. Zeamer, 90, of Beaver Dam passed away on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at Clearview Nursing and Rehabilitation in Juneau, Wisconsin.

Wilford was born on May 24, 1936, in Brown County, Wisconsin, the son of Bernard and Marcella “Sally” (Jandrey) Zeamer.  He was a graduate of Brillion High School and proudly served his country in the National Guard during the Berlin Crisis. Will attended UW Oshkosh, where he earned a degree in Music.

Will began his teaching career in Lena before moving to North Fond du Lac and later the Waupun School District, where he shared his passion for music. After many years in education, he pursued a second career as a social worker and was employed at Waupun Correctional Institution, where he worked until his retirement.

A lifelong lover of music, Will's talents extended far beyond the classroom. He played drums for his college band, the Hi-5’s, and later performed with numerous area bands, including the Northerly Winds, the Ron Harvey Big Band, and the Steve Young Band. Music remained a constant source of joy throughout his life.

Will was a member of Peace Lutheran Church in Beaver Dam and also the American Legion Post 521 of Fox Lake. 

Will is survived by his wife, Mary Jean; his sons, Tom (Beth) Zeamer of Beaver Dam, Paul Zeamer (Michelle Roberts) of Madison, and Steve Zeamer of Neenah; his grandchildren, Julia, Ben, Sophie, and Claudia; and his brother, Lloyd “Bud” (Elaine) Zeamer. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter-in-law, Gail Zeamer; and his sister and brother-in-law, Lorraine and Wayne Sawallish.

A memorial service for Wilford will be held on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, 400 Hillcrest Dr., Beaver Dam. Family and friends are invited to gather for a meal and time of fellowship following the service. Inurnment will take place at a later date at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Cemetery, Brillion, Wisconsin.

The Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam is serving the family.  Online condolences may be made at www.koepsellfh.com.