Don Ziegler

With a warm and steady presence and an insatiable zest for life, Donald B. Ziegler was a light to so many. He moved through the world with a gentleness that never dimmed and a wholehearted enthusiasm that made every moment feel meaningful. Don poured his soul into his passions, and everything he did, he did with his whole heart – especially in his love of music and the piano. But there was nothing that brought him greater joy than being surrounded by his friends and family, and he deeply savored each and every moment spent with his loved ones as a gift. A powerful role model of kindness and generosity, his willingness to go above and beyond to serve those around him inspired others to do the same. Already so greatly missed, Don will be forever loved and remembered.

The late 1940s ushered in an era of much-needed healing following the end of WWII in 1945. Families were reunited as servicemen returned home. Here in the United States, the economy was beginning to thrive, and the historic baby boom was underway. It was during this exciting time that Robert and Mary Ziegler of Chicago, Illinois, were happy to announce the arrival of their baby boy, born on June 22, 1948.

Don was one of three boys growing up in the Ziegler home and was raised alongside his brothers, Bob and Spence. He grew up with a curious mind and a natural inclination toward both science and art. He carried that duality throughout his life; equal parts engineer, chemist, musician, and storyteller. After graduating from the University of Illinois with a degree in Engineering, he began building a career that would eventually make him a respected figure in the paper industry. But long before professional titles and accomplishments, Don was simply a young man with a big heart, a bright smile, and a future full of promise.

Don’s love for music extended beyond the piano. Working as a DJ at the local public radio station, WPGU, he slowly became a well‑known radio personality in college at the University of Illinois. His familiar voice contributed to the station’s community‑focused programming and music broadcasts. He curated songs, shared stories, and connected listeners through the universal language of music. His broadcasting career reflected his deep connection to the community and his desire to bring joy, information, and companionship to others.

A love story for the ages unfolded when Don met Marian, the amazing woman who would forever hold the key to his heart. The two were soul mates in every way; deeply connected, effortlessly compatible, and devoted to one another from the very beginning. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Don and Marian were married in Riverdale, Illinois, in June of 1979. Their marriage was a partnership built on tenderness, humor, and unwavering loyalty. Don adored Marian with every fiber of his being, and she was truly the light of his life.

In 1982, Don and Marian became the proud parents of their son, Christopher Michael. Although Christopher tragically passed away as an infant, he left a lasting impact and held a sacred place in Don’s heart for the rest of his life. Don carried his son’s memory with quiet devotion, honoring him in the way he lived; with kindness, gratitude, and a deep appreciation for the people he loved.

Throughout their many years as husband and wife living in the Schoolcraft and Portage area, Don and Marian created a life rich with simple joys. They attended barbecues, watched movies curled up together, visited harbor towns along Lake Michigan, and spent peaceful moments sitting under their favorite magnolia tree by the pool. Christmas was always a special time of year, where Don loved the festive spirit Marian brought into their home through her decorating. Their home glowed with warmth, laughter, and the unmistakable feeling of being deeply loved. Together, they nurtured their faith as members of St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Portage, grounding their life in gratitude and devotion.

Don’s family continued to flourish, growing to include his niece, Amy, nephews Brad and David, and his great‑nieces and great‑nephews. He was a fun and doting uncle, famous for his homemade ice cream, his special pancakes, and the home movies he lovingly preserved so memories could be enjoyed for years to come. The kids were always eager to have fun in the pool, and Don was happy to host. He delighted in their laughter, their energy, and the joy of watching them grow. As Amy wrote in a letter to her uncle, “I smile thinking about your smile, because it lights up a room. I love you so, so much.” Her words capture what so many felt: Don’s presence made life brighter.

Professionally, Don worked his way into becoming a well‑respected figure in the paper industry. As a brilliant paper chemist, he dealt with the science and technology of papermaking; research, development, and quality control of paper products. He applied his chemical knowledge to improving paper quality, processing, and sustainability, contributing greatly to preserving the industrial heritage of the region. His expertise was widely recognized, and his work reflected not only technical mastery but also a genuine commitment to innovation. Don’s colleagues admired him for his intelligence, his curiosity, and his ability to blend scientific precision with creative problem‑solving.

Yet for all his professional accomplishments, Don’s heart beat strongest for music. His deep passion for piano was evident to all whenever he played. Don was known for his strong technical skills, but he also played with touching creative expression—music that seemed to rise directly from his soul. Over the years, he played his favorites. And in time, he decided to compile his favorite songs into a piano album, and when his nephew Brad heard it, he was compelled to name it. Brad called it Heartfelt. It was “a stunning soul‑stirring triumph,” a work of pure magic. From the very first note, it was clear you were listening to more than just an album, you were hearing a lifetime of stories pressed into piano keys. Don played with warmth, intention, and humanity, crafting pieces that felt like personal letters. His phrasing was elegant, his timing immaculate, and his sense of melody unforgettable. Heartfelt was not just an album - it was a gift to anyone who listened.

Those who knew Don best remember him as warm, funny, and dedicated. His smile was infectious, one of those rare smiles that made you feel instantly at ease. He would do anything for a loved one. He was completely committed to Marian, caring for her day and night with devotion that never wavered. He loved cats, delighted in their quirky personalities, and even created silly songs and phrases for them - expressions that became part of his own joyful language. He had a way of making ordinary moments feel special, whether through a cat dance, a joke, or a quiet evening spent listening to music.

Don’s happiness was found in the quiet, simple moments of life: sitting under the magnolia tree with Marian, watching the kids splash in the pool, savoring a homemade treat, or capturing a family memory on film. He lived with gratitude, humor, and a deep appreciation for beauty, whether in a sunset, a piano melody, or the laughter of someone he loved.

As we gather to reflect on the life and legacy of Don Ziegler, it is easy to celebrate such a remarkable man. He was a dedicated husband, brother, uncle, and friend. His family was his greatest treasure, and his love for them was unwavering. Although he is gone far too soon, Don lives on in every memory we treasure, every story we share, and every piece of music we enjoy in his honor.

Don lived a full life. His story reflects a beautiful blend of technical expertise and artistic talent, of devotion and joy, of quiet moments and grand passions. He bridged the worlds of science and music with grace, leaving behind contributions to both industry and culture. More importantly, he left behind love - deep, generous, and unforgettable. He is preceded in death by his infant son, Christopher Michael, and now rests in eternal peace, reunited with the child he carried in his heart for so long.

In the end, Don’s legacy is simple and profound: a life lived with heart. A life that touched others. A life that made the world gentler, kinder, and more beautiful.

And that is how he will be remembered - today, tomorrow, and always.

Donald B. Ziegler of Portage, age 78, died on August 4, 2026. He was born June 22, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois to Mary and Robert Ziegler. He was preceded in death by his infant son Christopher and his brother Bob Ziegler.

Don was the beloved husband of Marian Kaptur Ziegler who survives. Don loved and is survived by his brother Spence (Connie) Ziegler, members of Marian's family including sister-in-law Karen (Ed) Jasnoch and their son David Jasnoch. Sister-in-law Helen (Curt) Vollrath and their children, Amy (Eddie) Eggebrecht and their children Evan and Allie, nephew Brad (Amber) Vollrath and children Zach and Nikki.

Please join us for a Visitation on Thursday August 13 at 10 am at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Portage. There will be a Mass at 11 am followed by a luncheon. Burial at St. Benedict Catholic Cemetery in Crestwood, Illinois.

Celebrate Don’s life online by sharing your favorite stories and photos on his dedicated webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice.