James Edward Zeller

James Edward Zeller, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 9, 2025, at the age of 80. He was born on October 11, 1944, in Joliet, Illinois to Roy and Thelma Zeller.

Jim married Marilyn Kay (nee Kozak) on October 24, 1970, and together they shared 54 years of love, commitment, and partnership. He was the proud father of Maria (Lou) Flores, Amy (Andrew) Hogg, and Michael (Jenna) Zeller; six grandchildren: Elena (Becky) Flores, Stephanie (Rachel Howe) Flores, Caiden Hogg, Declan Hogg, Brileigh Zeller, and Saphira Zeller; as well as three great-grandchildren: Madison, Quinn, and Abigail Flores.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents and his older sisters: Phyllis Sealy, Donna Giaudrone, and Sandra Zeller. He is survived by his devoted wife Marilyn, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry on his memory with love and admiration, as well as his canine companion, Cowboy.

A master bricklayer by trade, Jim was a proud member of the Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Union for 50 years (Locals 14 & 74). After retirement, Jim found fulfillment in serving his community at Johnson Elementary in Mesa, Arizona as a tutor, aide, and crossing guard. He also devoted time as a Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), championing the rights of children in need.

Jim was also a longtime member of the Masons Lodge 20 of Mesa, Arizona; the Scottish Rite of Phoenix, Arizona; the Moran Club of Joliet, Illinois; and the Mesa Buckhorn Elks.

Jim enjoyed the outdoors, boating with his family, and was an avid camper. His family and friends will always remember him for his strong work ethic, his unwavering devotion to his family, and his love for the simple joys of life.

Jim’s remains will be interred at Woodlawn Memorial II in Joliet, Illinois and a Celebration of Life will be held at a future date.

The family is immensely grateful for the exceptional care provided by Hospice of the Valley.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to causes close to Jim’s heart: BOOST a Foster Family (www.BoostAFosterFamily.org) or The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (https://www.michaeljfox.org).