Ann Zillmer

Ann Matilda (Andersen) Zillmer passed away on October 1, 2025.

She was born to Louis and Clara (Hansen) Andersen in 1937 and grew up in Monroe County. As the life’s partner of Carroll Zillmer, she became a mother early in her life and by the time she was 28 years old had four children to raise. As her greatest gift to them, she instilled the desire and motivation to obtain higher education and to live out their dreams. It was never a question of if they would go to college, it was only where?

High points in her own life included obtaining a college degree from Upper Iowa University and working for years at General Telephone, which later became Verizon. There she rose to the position of Associate Engineer and was tasked with obtaining land easements for the company in rural parts of the state. She later had many stories to tell about her experiences that would have worried her children had they known what she was up to and the challenges she faced. Based on her achievements, Governor Tommy Thompson appointed her to the Land Information Board for the State of Wisconsin.

Ann was known for her talent as a baker producing luscious cinnamon rolls, dinner rolls, and desserts which were a standard for hunting season and holidays. She also enjoyed painting and sharing her work with family members. She was a committed fan of the Black River Falls Tigers as well as the Green Bay Packers. She loved her time golfing and socializing at the Skyline Golf Course where she was a devoted member of Skyline Friends.

She is survived by her brother, Robert Andersen, sons, Roger (Janet) Zillmer, David (Cheryle) Zillmer, Ronald Zillmer (Jamie), and her daughter, Debra (Daniel Leaver). She leaves a family of 8 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren with 2 more soon to be born.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Carroll, sister, Mildred Andersen Fromm, sister-in-law, Lois Gottschalk Andersen and sister-in-law, Shirley Zillmer Wilhelm.

A Celebration of Life for Ann will be held from 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., with time of sharing at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at Skyline Golf Course in Black River Falls.

The family wishes to thank the employees of Pine View Terrace and Saint Croix Hospice for their kindness and skillful care. In lieu of flowers, consider contributing to either of these two organizations. We also thank Dr. Del Rodgers and his assistant, Amanda, for their assistance over decades. Finally, our heartfelt thanks to Suzanne Amo, Deb Miles and Beth Wood who worked with Ann as skilled home care providers for many years.