Obituary for Clyde Zielke

Clyde Hurley Joseph Zielke, 89, of La Crosse, WI passed away peacefully at Mayo Health System on July 30, 2023, with his family at his side. He was born on June 7, 1934, to Walter and Margret (Trussoni) Zielke. He was married to the love of his life, Mary Kane, for 64 years.

Clyde was the most loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother. He leaves behind his wife, Mary; his children, Ginger, Greg (Terri), and Russ (Phyllis); his grandchildren Maria (Matt), Nikki (Max), Ali (Ricky), Mitch, and Dan; and his great-grandchildren Cole and Annie Szudy, and Lincoln and Elliott Nimmo. He also leaves behind his brother Mick (Barb) Zielke and sister Joan (Tom) Woldum. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Margret Zielke and brothers Sonny (Karen), Rinny (Mary Catherine), and Pat (Bea).

Clyde loved his family fiercely. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, working in his upholstery shop, painting, and traveling with his family, especially his adventures in his motorhome and a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Italy to see where his mother was born and lived before coming to the United States. Clyde was a friend to all and would go out of his way to help anyone in need. Among many things, Clyde’s family would praise him for being able to fix anything and would often say “if papa can’t fix it, no one can.” Clyde proudly served in the Navy from 1951-1955. During this time in the Navy, Clyde was a fireman, metalsmith, and an avid boxer achieving an award for the “Golden Gloves.” He will be remembered for his passion for life and the love he showed to everyone. He will be deeply missed.

On behalf of Clyde, his family would like to thank Mayo Clinic Rochester and La Crosse for the wonderful care and kindness that so many have shown to Clyde and his family through his illness. We will forever be grateful to you.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, August 6, 2023 at 3:00 P.M., at Fredrickson Funeral Homes, Woodruff Chapel, La Crosse, WI. Following the service military honors will be rendered by the Roy L. Vingers American Legion Post 52 of La Crosse and the United States Navy Funeral Honor Guard. A visitation will be held from 1:00 P.M. until the time of service, Sunday, at the funeral home. Additionally, a dinner will follow at the Moose Lodge at 4:30 pm.

Online condolences may be offered on this website.