Gerald "Gerry" Zvara

In Loving Memory of Gerald “Gerry” Zvara

Gerald Zvara, a devoted husband of 48 years to Shelly (Dimmer), loving father of Nick (Kim) Zvara, cherished grandfather of Grace, Lilly, and Grant, and loyal friend, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Gerry lived a life rich with passion and joy, embodying a spirit of generosity, warmth, and humor that touched all who were fortunate to know him.

Gerry proudly served in the US Army during the Vietnam War and was a Master Mason of McKinley Lodge #307 F.&A.M. He valued the fellowship, integrity, and community service of the Freemasons, finding purpose and friendship among his Masonic brothers.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Gerry competed in football, basketball, and baseball at Washington High School in Milwaukee, earning all-city honors and leading multiple teams as captain. His competitive spirit carried through his life, first cheering on his son’s athletic pursuits, and later proudly supporting his grandchildren. When he wasn’t watching youth sports, Gerry was a devoted fan of the Milwaukee Brewers, Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Badgers, and Marquette Golden Eagles.

Gerry’s competitive nature extended to his love of games. Countless hours were spent in his game room playing billiards, darts, ping pong, and foosball. He cherished gathering with friends for card games—Cribbage, Canfield, Sheepshead, Hot Rum, and most recently, Five Crowns. He also enjoyed classic board games like Monopoly, Scrabble, Rummikub, and Yahtzee, always bringing laughter and camaraderie to the table.

In his free time, Gerry was often found on the water. Gerry’s joy for the water began early, with family trips to the Lac Du Flambeau Chain of Lakes alongside neighborhood friends. After his military service, he became a whitewater guide on the Colorado River, deepening his lifelong love of the outdoors. Following in his father’s footsteps, he joined Advanced Boiler & Tank Co., repairing boilers on ships in the Port of Milwaukee and power plants before eventually managing the business himself. His passion for the water continued through owning his own boats and houseboat trips on the Mississippi River with his wife, son, and friends, and through fishing adventures to Big Crawling Stone and Monroe Lake in Ontario, Canada. Later, he delighted in sharing his passion for the water with his grandchildren, fishing and clam hunting in the pond behind his home.

A man of many talents, Gerry found great fulfillment in planning and creating. During his time in the military, he helped construct Army barracks in Germany, a passion that carried into civilian life as he oversaw the build of his family home in Grafton and several rental properties in Port Washington. In later years, he turned that same energy toward landscaping, finding peace in tending his gardens, flower beds, and beach. What he commonly referred to as “therapy”. Working side by side with his son on various projects, most notably the backyard patio they built together just five years ago, brought him immense joy. He also cherished the simple, meaningful traditions shared with his wife, especially their annual Thanksgiving relish and Christmas cookie decorating sessions, which filled their home with laughter and love. Whether planning the next day’s work or relaxing with a Bacardi and Coke in hand, Gerry cherished these moments deeply.

Gerry’s life was one of love, laughter, hard work, and togetherness. His legacy will continue to live on in the family and friends who carry his stories, lessons, and spirit forward.

Gerry is survived by his beloved wife, Shelly Zvara; son, Nick (Kim) Zvara; grandchildren, Grace, Lilly, and Grant Zvara; and sister, Jan (Ken) Gorgen. He was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Pearl Zvara, and sister, Patrice Gwinn.

A celebration of Gerry’s life will be held at Grace Lutheran Church in Grafton on Monday, November 10, with visitation from 4:00–6:00 PM followed by a Funeral Service at 6:00 PM. Gerry will be honored with a Masonic Service on Monday, at the church, starting at 3:00PM. The family will receive friends and relatives following the Masonic Service beginning at 4:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Alzheimer’s Association, the Medical College of Wisconsin Parkinson’s Research, or the memorial of your choice are appreciated.

For those who are unable to attend in person, please copy and paste the following link to your browser to watch the livestreaming of the Funeral Service for Gerald "Gerry" Zvara.

https://youtube.com/live/JhxaFGkxLkg?feature=share