Wilhelm K

Zoepke

Wilhelm Karl Ludwig Zoepke, age 91, passed away Thursday November 28, 2013 at Parkcliffe Alzheimer Community of Toledo. Wilhelm was born January 2, 1922 to Robert and Bertha (Sandt) Zoepke in Schloss-Neudorf, Germany.
Wilhelm was the son of a blacksmith and followed in his father's footsteps before being drafted into the German Navy. After being drafted, Wilhelm spent 3 years on the Eastern front and one year as a POW in a Russian gulag after the war. Wilhelm immigrated to America with his family on April 27, 1952. First working as an auto mechanic for Moore Motors. From there he went on to be a member of the Boilermakers Local 85, working for Erie Machining & Iron Workers, as a Machinist Fabricator. In that position he traveled on Lake Freighters installing and repairing various parts and systems. Wilhelm also held a position with the City of Toledo, as an operator, working at the water reclamation plant.
He was a member of GBU for over 50 years. He held the position of trustee, as well as volunteering many hours at various functions within the German Clubs, in particular the German American Festival. He also enjoyed singing in the Teutonia Mannachoir. Wilhelm was an honorary member of 96th Infantry Div Army Air Corps Assoc.
He is survived by his children Klaus (Donna), Jutta Marquardt and Jerry (Vicki); grandchildren Andrew Shaddeau, Julie (Tim) Murray, Jeff (Carolyn) Marquardt, Lauren Marquardt, Samantha, Matthew and Emily Zoepke; great grandchildren Jack and Declan Murray.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Gerda (Schwerdtmann); brother Werner Zoepke of Bordeaux, France; son in law, Arthur Marquardt; great grandson Will Murray and special friend Norma Barth.
Friends may pay their respects at the Foth – Dorfmeyer Mortuary 3815 Sylvania Ave. (Between Monroe St. & Talmadge Rd.) Wednesday from 4 to 8 PM where funeral services will be held Thursday at 10:30 AM. Interment Ottawa Hills Memorial Park. Those wishing to make memorial contributions in Wilhelm's name, the family asks to consider Senior Independence Hospice and the Wounded Warrior Project. The family would like to also give a special thanks to the staff of Parkcliffe Alzheimer's Community and Senior Independence Hospice for their wonderful care and compassion.