Rudolph Frank Ziman Jr., 80, passed away peacefully in Door County, Wisconsin, on July 17, 2024. He was born in Chicago, Illinois, on August 19, 1943, to the late Rudolph Sr. and Charlotte (Kelbowski) Ziman. Rudy attended St. Rita High School and graduated in 1969 from Illinois Institute of Technology with a degree in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. Work opportunities led him around the United States, and he landed in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, where he and his wife of 60+ years raised their family. In 1980 he started a company that designed and built air pollution control equipment. Rudy’s success came from his reputation for being conscientious and consistent, loyal and honorable in both his business and his personal life. His business relationships have lead to friendships that would outlast his 2015 retirement. Rudy’s lengthy professional life was dedicated to growing his successful business which continues to thrive under the ownership of his son.

Rudy did know how to play ! He imparted his love of golfing, boating and fishing to all of his children and grandchildren. A man of many talents, he could do The Worm, rock a Fred Flintstone costume, take a 3AM shift on a 3000 mile road trip, and still crack a terrible joke over breakfast.

He is already missed by his wife Shirley, his children, Rande (Melissa) Ziman, Kimberlee (Joseph) Butscher and Bethann (Martin) Maiers and his grandchildren, Amelia Jack, Millicent (Frank) Crooks, Franklin Jack, Connor Ziman, Freya Maiers, Fiona Maiers, Augustus Butscher and Leo Butscher.

Rudy was incomparable. His resolute manner, the crinkling of his eyes that gave away his dry humor, and his obvious dedication to never leaving on time for a family vacation will be forever remembered. His absence from his life is keenly felt. Rudy was hard-working and selfless, a generous provider and a source of quiet and gentle love.

Family and friends will gather at Schmidt & Bartelt Funeral Home 121 S. Cross St. Oconomowoc on Saturday August 3, 2024, from 11am to 2pm. A blessing from Fr. David Verhasselt will start at 1pm.

The family would like to express a special thank you to the Gibraltar Fire & Rescue and the staff in the ER at Door County Medical Center for the continued good care they provided Rudy during his many visits.