Obituary of Robert Zillmer

Robert C. "Zeke" Zillmer, 93, of Dowagiac, passed away at his residence on Saturday, December 30, 2017, while holding the hands of his loved ones. He was born on October 16, 1924 in South Bend, Indiana to the late Adolph and Lydia (Fisch) Zillmer. Robert loved his country and attempted to enlist in the U.S. Army at the age of 17; when the U.S. refused to enlist him he traveled to Canada, joined the Canadian Army and fought in combat during WWII. He was a prisoner of war and was highlighted in Canadian newspapers for his bravery. On February 13, 1960, Robert married the love of his life, Iva M. Grossnickle at a ceremony in South Bend, Indiana. Robert was retired from The South Bend Community Schools and spent many happy years as an antique dealer…Robert loved the outdoors and always welcomed a chance to go hunting or fishing. He also enjoyed a game or two of Euchre with family and friends. He was a member of the Cassopolis United Methodist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Harry Zillmer, Etta Zillmer, Celora Pavy and Alice Niblick. Robert is survived his wife, Iva Zillmer of Dowagiac; a daughter, Amy (Todd) File of Vandalia; a son, Erick (Carol) Zillmer of Edwardsburg; three grandchildren, Shannon Zillmer, Bethany File and Lauren File. His family will be remembering Robert with a memorial open house at 60616 Woodland Drive in Dowagiac, Michigan on Friday, January 12, 2018 from 3:00 pm until 6:00 pm. Expressions of sympathy on behalf of Bob may be offered to the Cassopolis United Methodist Church, 209 South Rowland St., Cassopolis, Michigan, 49031 or the Humane Shelter of Cass County.