Gerald “Gerry” Zvara

In Loving Memory of Gerald “Gerry” Zvara.

Gerald “Gerry” Zvara, 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 Nov. 5, 2025, surrounded by his family’s love. Gerry lived a life full of passion, humor and generosity, touching all who knew him.

A proud U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam War, Gerry also served as a Master Mason of McKinley Lodge #307 F.&A.M., where he valued fellowship, integrity and community service, finding lasting purpose and friendship among his Masonic brothers.

A lifelong athlete, Gerry excelled in football, basketball and baseball at Washington High School in Milwaukee, earning all-city honors and captaining multiple teams. His competitive spirit never waned — he loved cheering on his son and, later, his grandchildren. A devoted sports fan, he faithfully supported the Milwaukee Brewers, Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Badgers and Marquette Golden Eagles.

Gerry’s enthusiasm for competition extended to his love of games. He spent countless hours in his game room playing billiards, darts, ping pong and foosball. He delighted in card nights and playing classic board games with friends, where laughter and camaraderie were always present.

A man drawn to the water, Gerry’s passion began with childhood trips to the Lac du Flambeau Chain of Lakes. After his military service, he worked as a whitewater guide on the Colorado River, deepening his love of the outdoors. 

Following in his father’s footsteps, he joined Advanced Boiler & Tank Co., repairing ship boilers in the Port of Milwaukee and power plants before eventually managing the business. 

He continued to find joy on the water through boating on the Mississippi River with family and friends and fishing trips to Big Crawling Stone and Monroe Lake in Ontario, Canada. In recent years, he loved sharing that joy with his grandchildren, fishing and clam hunting in the pond behind his home.

Gerry’s talent for building and planning was evident throughout his life. In the Army, he helped construct barracks in Germany, a skill he later used to oversee the construction of his family home in Grafton and several rental properties in Port Washington. Later, he discovered peace in landscaping — tending his gardens, flower beds and beach, what he fondly called his “therapy.” Working side by side with his son on projects, especially the backyard patio they built together five years ago, brought him immense pride. 

He also cherished simple family traditions with Shelly, like making Thanksgiving relish and decorating Christmas cookies, moments that filled their home with warmth and laughter. Whether planning his next project or relaxing with a Bacardi and Coke, Gerry truly savored life.

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

He is survived by his beloved wife Shelly, son Nick (Kim), grandchildren Grace, Lilly and Grant 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, Nov. 10, from 4 to 6 p.m., with a time for sharing memories to follow. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Alzheimer’s Association, Medical College of Wisconsin Parkinson’s Research or the charity of your choice are appreciated. 

Please visit www.plopperfh.com to view Gerry’s video tribute or send condolences to the Zvara family.