Gerald "Gerry" Zvara

In Loving Memory of Gerald “Gerry” Zvara Gerald Zvara, a devoted husband 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. A proud Freemason, Gerry valued the fellowship, integrity, and community service the fraternity represents, finding purpose and friendship among his Masonic brothers.

Those who knew Gerry knew of his deep love for sports. In high school, he competed in football, basketball, and baseball for the Milwaukee Washington Purgolders, 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 two granddaughters and grandson. 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 füßball. 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 serving in the military, 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 taking over the business. 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 those same experiences 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, sweetness, and love. Whether planning the next day’s work or relaxing with a Bacardi and Coke in hand, Gerry cherished these shared 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, cherished son, Nick (Kim) Zvara, three grandchildren, Grace, Lilly, and Grant Zvara, and sister, Jan (Ken) Gorgen. Further survived by many other relatives and friends. Gerry was preceded in death parents, Stan 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, from 4:00–6:00 PM. A time for sharing memories and honoring his loving spirit will follow, allowing all who knew him to reflect on the countless ways he brightened their lives. 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.