Jeffrey Ziehmke

PORTAGE — Jeffrey Ziehmke, 63, of Portage, passed away of natural causes on Sunday, February 14, 2016, at his home in Caledonia.

Jeff was born on September 23rd 1952 to Lester and Arlaine Ziehmke. He was a graduate of Portage High School and a lifelong resident of Caledonia Township, where he farmed for the majority of his life. Jeff had a generous heart and cared deeply for his family, friends, and animal companions. He enjoyed catching up with friends that stopped by the farm and always had a joke or story to tell.

He is survived by his siblings, Jim (De Ette) Ziehmke of Boerne, Texas; Jerry (Carol) Ziehmke, of Pardeeville, John Ziehmke, Jay (Mary) Ziehmke and Julie (Bill) Zimmerman, all of Portage, as well as nieces and nephews, Brett, Anthony, Angela, Megan, Josh, Tanya and Chris. He is also survived by special friends Esther Staudenmayer and Ron Grotzke. Jeff was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Arlaine; nieces and nephews Melissa, Sarah, Teresa and Timothy; and special family friend, John Staudenmayer.

A memorial to celebrate Jeff’s life will be held at a later date and will be private. The Pflanz Mantey Mendrala Funeral Home in Portage is assisting the family.