Bernard L. Zeman

Bernard L. Zeman, 91, formerly of Springfield, IL, died Sunday, January 24, 2021 at AMITA Health Hospice Care in Elk Grove, IL. He was born on June 2, 1929, the son of Bennie L. Zeman and Anna Kenner Zeman. He married his high school sweetheart, Marilyn R. Utinske, on August 5, 1950. She preceded him in death on May 1, 2003.

Bernie was a graduate of Feitshans High School where he was a member of the basketball team, National Honor Society, and served as Class President. He was an engineer and manager of Fiat-Allis for Thirty-four years, where he was awarded two patents. After retiring on December 31, 1984, he and Marilyn traveled together for several years. He subsequently began his second career as a design consultant and a leader in the Engineering Department for Bunn-O-Matic until 2003.

Bernie could accomplish anything he set his mind to, including building his own home. He was an avid gardener well into his late 80’s, famous for his artistic garden design, tomatoes, roses, and gladiolas. He and Marilyn loved to travel in their camper and visited nearly all of the National Parks. They were both particularly fond of fishing together.

He was a veteran of the Illinois National Guard HQ 123rd infantry, serving July 1, 1949 – June 2, 1951.

Bernard was also a member of Christ the King Church; past member of the Holy Name Society, and the National Society of Professional Engineers.

Surviving are his daughters, Terry (Andy) Steiner of Western Springs, IL and Lisa (Roger) Lahr of Lombard, IL; five grandchildren, Ian (Janel) Steiner of Portland OR, Jason (Erin) Lahr of Warrenton, MO, Erin (Craig) Pavlich of Glen Ellyn, IL, Lindsey (Michael) Sinde of Blue Island, IL and Kelly (Christian) Olsen of Saginaw, TX. He also enjoyed six great-grandchildren: Clara and Brennan Steiner, Nolan and Elliette Pavlich, and Elizabeth and Michael Sinde.

Visitation: 10:00 – 11:30 am, Friday, January 29, 2021 at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield.

Funeral Mass: 12:00 noon, Friday, January 29, 2021 at Christ the King Church with Reverend Michael Berndt officiating. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. www.alz.org/illinois. 225 N. Michigan Ave, Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

CDC Protocol shall be followed.

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