Zirbel, Peter R. Born Feb. 9, 1951 in Beaver Dam, WI. Pete died at home Jan. 8, 2009, having faced ALS with optimism, dignity and integrity. Survived by his loving wife and best friend, Cathy Reed; sons, Jackson and Connor; parents, Mary and Reinheart Zirbel; brothers, John (Margaret Morse) and David (Shirley); sisters, Gretchen Zirbel, Martha Zirbel (Rob O'Neil), Alexa Zirbel (Michael Krausse), Frances Foley (Jay); and ten nieces and nephews. Pete grew up in Janesville, WI and graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1977. He left Madison with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, an MBA, great memories (NBTR) and a host of lifelong friends. Pete joined Andersen Consulting in 1978, using his creative energy and analytical and engineering skills to develop systems solutions for manufacturing, IT and other industries. He was a partner at Andersen Consulting and Deloitte & Touche. A railroad aficionado, Pete was involved with the Milwaukee Road 261 (261.com) and served as volunteer on many Midwest excursions. He was also a history buff, a leader of Edina Boy Scout Troop 68, and was happiest hiking and canoeing in the BWCA. ALS took Pete's life much too soon, but he made the most of his 58 years. Special thanks to Jean Lister and the Fairview Hospice staff. Memorials to ALS Association of MN, Fairview Hospice, the Boy Scouts of America or Milwaukee 261. Memorial service 11 AM Friday, Jan. 23 at Christ Presbyterian Church, 6901 Normandale Rd. (West 70th St. & Hwy. 100), Edina. Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel 952-920-3996
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.
