Search by Name

Search by Name

Aaron Zelman Obituary

Zelman, Aaron S. December 21, 2010, age 64 years, of Erin, WI. Beloved husband of Nancy Zelman (nee Soderlund). Dear father of Erik and Jeremy Zelman. Further survived by other relatives and friends. Funeral services 11:00 AM Friday, December 24, 2010 at Beth El Ner Tamid Synagogue, 2909 W. Mequon Rd., Mequon. Memorials to JPFO, P.O. Box 270143, Hartford, WI 53027 or Beth El Ner Tamid Synagogue are appreciated.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Dec. 23, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Aaron Zelman

Not sure what to say?





May 19, 2011

His presentation to the Libertarian Party of Michhigan in the 80's reversed my position on gun control in 30 seconds. So sorry to hear of his passing. Dick Gach.

Ralph Rubinek

March 6, 2011

May the book of knowledge be the kindle of life for all to follow.

In memory of Aaron Zelman.

Ralph Rubinek

March 6, 2011

Well Aaron, I guess this is good-bye. Having met you in 1990 and published a missive honoring my Mother, a Holocaust survivor, I thought the world of you. Perhaps good things come to pass in death as in life. Shalom Aaron.

Lee Novick

February 15, 2011

Although Aaron and I had never met face to face, I counted him as a close friend and shared with him, many important beliefs and ideals. Over the years since he founded the JPFO, we spent numerous hours communicating via telephone and email. Aaron almost always answered calls to JPFO, even after regular business hours.

I am a WWII child; born during the terrible years of the Shoah during Germany's attempt to conquer the world. When I first heard of and began to understand some of what had happened to many of my relatives in Europe, I vowed that I would do anything to prevent that type of tragedy from ever happening again, and to secure the means to protect my family, my country, my people, and myself.

I am proud to have been a long time member of JPFO, and spoke to many people of varied religious and ethnic backgrounds, about Aaron and his work. Several of my non-Jewish friends also became admirers of Aaron, and supported his work and organization.

I miss him, and pray for him regularly. He was a very special person who did his best to spread our common ideals, including respect and love for our country and its constitution. He will long be remembered as a great patriot and a man who stood up for what he believed in.

Shalom, and Never Again!

Jeffery Oliver

February 12, 2011

I'm so thankful for his contributions to educate and liberate people. May God's peace comfort all those touched by Aaron's life.

Patrick Obermeyer

February 8, 2011

I am so sorry for the passing of Aaron. A great patriotic American who will be missed and is appreciated with my highest regards for liberty and the second amendment. After all is said and done, the second amendment is the liberty teeth of the first which protects our religious freedom! Peace be to you my friends!

Kenneth Barton

January 20, 2011

I thank G-d for Mr. Zelman, for his stand on firearms, and for his courage in founding JPFO. I thank you, his family, for keeping him going. May He keep you in HIs hands. Ken B (Broken Arrow, OK)

Jequitta Molot

January 13, 2011

Dear Nancy and Erik and Jeremy

We have not had contact for several years but you often cross my mind. I am so very, very sorry for your loss. Words are inadequate at a time like this but please know that I will keep you and your sons in my thoughts and prayers. With love--Jequitta & Mark

Rev. G L Curtis

January 9, 2011

Dear Zelman family,
I just learned of Reb Aaron's untimely passing. It was a shock and pierced me to the core. We lost a true Patriot and a pillar of the second amendment movement. Although I never had the privilege of meeting Aaron in the flesh, we spent a lot of time on the phone, his zeal and love of Life,Liberty and Country were an inspiration to any and all who knew him. May HaShem give you peace and comfort in this time of sorrow and may you cling to the fond memories in the days and years to come.
Shalom
The Most Rev. G L (Dov) Curtis

Gina N.

January 9, 2011

Nancy,
I am so sorry for your loss. You, Erik and Jeremy are in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time.

Clifford D. Weiss, CPO

January 6, 2011

I have been a long distance acquaintance of Mr. Aaron Zelman for many illuminating years. He is held in highest regards for his tireless efforts and great accomplishments throughout his distinguished career. His outstanding research and educational achievements, along with his steadfast struggle to defend and protect American Human Rights are unparalleled. I'm very saddened to hear of his passing and would like to relay my heartfelt condolences to his family.

Shlomo Yaffe

January 6, 2011

May his soul be bound up in the bond of eternal life and may he go from strength to strength in he next world, whilst his memory is a blessing for those here...

Clifford D. Weiss, CPO

January 6, 2011

I have been a long distance acquaintance of Mr. Aaron Zelman for many illuminating years. He is held in highest regards for his tireless efforts and great accomplishments throughout his distinguished career. His outstanding research and educational achievements, along with his steadfast struggle to defend and protect American Human Rights are unparalleled. I'm very saddened to hear of his passing and would like to relay my heartfelt condolences to his family.

Jon Wilcox, Esq.

January 3, 2011

Dear Nancy, Erik and Jeremy,

I got off the plane and Janell told me Aaron died while I was away. What a blow! I never met you, but I worked with Aaron on several projects since the Wentworth days. Having lost my mother this year, I know your pain and extend my great sympathy for your loss. May G-d give you strength and courage to press on.

Aaron was a creative and persistent force in his efforts to educate and challenge those who would hide the light of freedom from citizens. Though I was a leader in other organizations, Aaron always challenged me to be more assertive in forwarding our message. He got me off my butt to help when I was feeling lazy or tired. Aaron's understanding of the thought processes of enemies of freedom mentored me. Aaron was such a gentleman when he called to talk. This champion of freedom, a better champion than I, still favored me with his high opinion of my advice for his proposed action. I am a better person to have known him.

My first thought on hearing of his passing was how unfair this was for Aaron - just when his efforts were really, visibly, optimistically, carrying the day for us. He will get his glory in Heaven, while we will all miss him a great deal.

LouAnn & Bob Rogowski

January 2, 2011

Dear Nancy and Sons,

Our sympathy goes out to you. We were shocked to hear of Aaron's passing. I remember you, Nancy, saying that you and Asron worked well together; so, I know he will be missed by you and your sons.

GERALD COSTA

December 31, 2010

I THANK YOU FOR ALL THE EDUCATION YOU HAVE SHED ON US TO BE PROPERLY INFORMED AS WE STRUGGLE TO KEEP OUR RIGHTS GOODBUY FOR NOW MY BROTHER IN ARMS,AND G-D BLESS YOUR FAMILY AS THEY STRUGGLE WITH THE LOSS OF A WONDERFUL HUMAN BEING..

David Zinner

December 31, 2010

I never knew Aaron Zelman, but as a member of JPFO I had a great deal of respect and awe for his work. Before I'd heard of his life's work I thought I was about the only Jew who liked guns and respected the 2nd Amendment. I know many will miss him personally, but JPFO will carry on precisely because he did his job so well.

I'll say Kaddish for him next time I'm at services.

C A Dachete

December 31, 2010

Nancy, Erik, and Jeremy I am so sorry for your loss.

Gary Sivits

December 30, 2010

You will be sorely missed Aaron. You were a true warrior, fighting the good fight to preserve our rights to be armed. God keep your family during this time of overwhelming grief. We will carry on the fight; we know that is what you would want to hear. Blessings to the Zelman family.

Mark Terry

December 30, 2010

Dear Nancy, Erik and Jeremy - Tina and I are both so sad to hear of your loss; we were honored to know and work with Aaron, and will miss him more than we can say. The world has lost a lion in the fight for liberty - we know how much Aaron loved his family, and what a great loss his passing must be to you. I lost my beloved father, Ken Terry, just 10 days before you lost Aaron - he was a longtime admirer of Aaron's and a supporter of JPFO. Please let us know if there is anything we can do. G-d bless you.

Tina Terry

December 30, 2010

Thank you, dear Aaron, for your tireless work for all of us who love liberty. Thank you for being my friend, and making me laugh hard and think harder so many times over the past 19 years. I shall miss you so much, dear Aaron. I thank G-d for all you did for those of us who were lucky enough to know you, and those who didn't, but for whom you fought so fiercely and unceasingly that they might be free. My husband, Mark, and I send our love and condolences to Aaron's wonderful family, who supported him in his work. May G-d give you peace.

Mark Alfaro

December 30, 2010

Farewell Aaron. Thank You for your tireless defense of our freedoms. You will be missed.

Scott Martinez

December 30, 2010

R.I.P.
Thanks for fighting the Good Fight.

J Lyman

December 30, 2010

Thank you, Aaron, for your strength of character and steadiness of purpose. Your efforts at illuminating the eternal worldwide value of personal self defense have set a standard the rest of us can only hope to achieve.


John F. Lyman
Lieutenant, U. S. Navy (Retired)
Summerville, SC

Pete Hess

December 30, 2010

G-d has taken a great one. Freedom loving people of the world are grateful for his intellect and energy. He has influenced me profoundly since discovering JFPO online in '97. Blessings and strength to his wife, sons and family.

Michael Marinacci

December 30, 2010

Thanks for your work defending American freedoms and values. Memory Eternal, Mr. Zelman.

M.T. Strehle

December 30, 2010

Thank You, Aaron. Your courage and strength will be missed. -MTS

Daniel Schmutter

December 30, 2010

Nancy, Erik, Jeremy -

I am shocked and saddened at the loss of Aaron. I had the great pleasure and privilege of representing JPFO in three Second Amendment cases, including both Heller and McDonald.

Aaron had a raw and refreshing vigor for the Second Amendment that made him wonderful to work with as a client. He never lacked interesting ideas on how to advance the cause of human liberty.

I hope it will come as some solace to you that he greatly touched not only family and friends but many colleagues and strangers as well.

My deepest condolences to you. Aaron will be greatly missed.

Daniel L. Schmutter, Esq.
Farer Fersko, P.A.
Westfield, New Jersey

Ben Noach

December 30, 2010

May his soul be bound in the bonds of eternity.

Hirsh Dlinn, Sec Ldr, The John Birch Society

Hirsh Dlinn

December 30, 2010

I was shocked to learn about the death of my friend Aaron. We had met at Toward Tradition and stayed in touch on mutual issues and Yiddishkeit. Aaron ran one of the top pro-gun organizations in the world, JPFO, and taught Jews to be proud and learn to defend themselves. The world has lost a real patriot and a true yid.

Barry Greenspan

December 30, 2010

I never met Aaron Zelman but I spoke to him by phone on numberous occassions in the late 1980s when I was a member of the Jewish Defense League in Southern California.

Although Aaron was not a J.D.L. member, the J.D.L. considered his J.P.F.O. as an ideological cousin and many J.D.L. members also belonged to J.P.F.O.

May he rest in peace.

D Levitt

December 30, 2010

The world is a lesser place without him.

George in Cyprus

December 30, 2010

Peace be with you...

Derek Bernard

December 30, 2010

I never had the pleasure of meeting Aaron, but I have been an admirer of his work for many years.

Freedom has lost a remarkable champion, but his legacy will live on.

Derek Bernard, Jersey, British Isles

Howard Fanning

December 30, 2010

My hat is off, and feeling great sorrow for a great American and his family.

Jerry Avalos

December 30, 2010

I am saddened by the loss of such a great patriot. He was truly a son of Israel and a defender of freedom and liberty. May he rest in peace.

Sheila Stokes-Begley

December 29, 2010

We just learned of your loss and are so sorry. I think the whole 2nd amendment community is grieving with you, and for you. I wish there were words I could say to give you comfort, but I don't think there are any. Mr. Zelman was an amazing man. He embraced the role of freedom activist and taught so many others and shared so much knowledge. Our prayers are with you.
Sheila Stokes-Begley
President
Western Missouri Shooters Alliance

Mike Courtney

December 29, 2010

A true patriot, defender of freedom, and civil rights, including the right to self defense. May he be with G-D, in heaven.

Jeff Knox

December 29, 2010

Dear Mrs. Zelman,
I grieve with you and your family in your loss.
I held Aaron in the highest regard and always appreciated the benefit of his wise counsel, which he offered generously. He was a visionary leader and a blessing to all who cherish liberty. He will live on in the hearts of those who loved him and the thousands and thousands who were indelibly marked by his passion and commitment.

Tom Price

December 29, 2010

Only through G-d's grace will we ever find someone to fill the void caused by Aaron's passing. I 've never ment the man, but feel as if I've lost a mentor. May G-d Bless your family.

December 29, 2010

Aaron will be sorely missed. But he left a great legacy. I feel lucky to have been acquainted with him.

God bless Aaron's soul and may the blessings of God be with you all.

Clifford D. Weiss, CPO

December 29, 2010

My deepest condolences to the Zelman family.

Aaron is the big brother of all American Human Rights Defenders and he will be greatly missed.

I'm so sorry.

L P

December 29, 2010

I just read the sad news.
I am in total shock. I’m a JPFO member.
My condolences to your Family
He was a great G-d given freedom fighter and a righteous man because of that.
In a world that has forgotten “never again” he never did

Elias Alias

December 29, 2010

America has lost a great Son, and I have lost a good friend. I will do all in my power to promote and preserve Aaron's generous body of work on behalf of liberty in America. My sincere condolences to Aaron's family and many friends.
Aaron, Brother, I'll see ya soon enough. Thank you, Friend.
Salute!
Elias Alias, Oath Keepers, Inc. and The Oath Keeper newspaper.

Joseph Martino

December 29, 2010

We must carry on his legacy. He was a great fighter and will be sorely missed.

Claire Wolfe

December 29, 2010

I was privileged to have Aaron as a friend and co-author for seven years. He was a great creative spirit, an uncompromising freedom lover, and always -- always -- a great gentleman. May your works live on, Aaron. Nancy, Jeremy, Erik, though I never met you I know how much Aaron loved you all. I'm so sorry for you loss -- which is also the world's loss.

Mike Ruff

December 29, 2010

I loved both the books Aaron wrote w/ L. Neil Smith, and have been a proud gentile member of JPFO since I first heard of Aaron's great work.

Rep. Jenn Coffey

December 29, 2010

May Aaron be at peace and G-d give his family strength. My fondest memory will always be him teaching me not be a activist but a Bill of Rightist. Aaron you will be missed.

Bruce Jackson

December 29, 2010

I just joined JPFO as a life member. I have been going through the materials they set me. I have learned much and was already looking forward to meeting Mr. Zelman one day and, honestly, I still am. My prayers are with the family.

Marinelle Thompson

December 29, 2010

I have lost a very good friend, and fellow traveler on the road to keeping our 2nd Amendment rights.

May he rest in peace.

Mari Thompson
Founder and President
Second Amendment Sisters Inc.

Dave Duffy

December 29, 2010

Aaron was an important freedom fighter. We'll miss him.

December 29, 2010

Aaron, your tireless work for our rights will be sorely missed. We wish that We had known you personally, but it was an honor to have you as a fellow warrior. May you always rest in peace. Dennis & Carma Jackson - Armed Females of America

D C

December 29, 2010

My deepest condolences to the Zelmans. Aaron Zelman was a man I greatly admired.

The Very Rev. Daniel Beegan

December 29, 2010

I never had the pleasure of meeting Aaron Zelman, but I, as did all gun owners, benefited greatly from his tireless fight for the 2nd Amendment.

May G*d grant him eternal rest.

Capt. G. Gooch

December 29, 2010

I have just heard the sad news.
I am still in shock but wanted to say that He will be sorely missed.

My condolences to the Family and to us all.

Kevin Starrett

December 29, 2010

It was an honor to have considered him a colleague.

Iloilo Jones

December 29, 2010

Occasionally, when I needed a boost or just wanted to toss ideas around, I'd call Aaron. His keen intelligence, quick wit, and warm personality always brought a smile to my face and sparks of ideas to my mind.
Thank you, Aaron, for your excellent mind and your undaunted spirit.

Joel Simon

December 29, 2010

The world is a far poorer place, for having lost this brave and principled man. We will miss you, Aaron Zelman.

Roy Brubaker

December 29, 2010

Although I never had occasion to meet Aaron Zelman, he served as a shining example of a true American patriot. His 110% dedication to the promise of an America that should be has lit many a soul and we would do well to dedicate ourselves to carry on this dream. We will truly miss you and may your family find peace in the multitude of souls that he touched.

Mary Lou Seymour

December 29, 2010

Goodbye Aaron, your work for freedom is a shining example to us all and will live forever. You have touched so many lives. To your family,may the memories of Aaron's time on this earth and the sure knowledge you will see him again one day be of comfort to you in your grief. May God's peace be with you this day, and always.

Chris Hodges

December 29, 2010

Having recently lost a close family member as well, I understand & sympathize with your loss. I never met Aaron, but have looked up to him for his courage & persistence for years. I am grateful for his efforts will remember him & your entire family in my thoughts & prayers.

Susan Callaway

December 29, 2010

I was greatly privileged to know Aaron for many years, though I never met him in person. His loss diminishes us all in so many ways.

You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

David Codrea

December 29, 2010

Sincere and deeply-felt condolences to the family.

Goodbye, Aaron. What an honor it was to know you. I am so grateful for the work you did on behalf of freedom, and for the legacy you leave behind.

May we be worthy of it.

December 29, 2010

Nancy, I learned of your loss and I extend my sympathies to you. This is a difficult time but embrace your memories and hug your boys as a living legacy of Aaron. Carol Pountain

Barbara Beckert

December 27, 2010

Dearest Nancy, Erik, and Jeremy,
We are so very sorry that your wonderful family is facing this devastating loss of your dear husband and father. We just heard the news and are so very sorry for your loss and will be in touch soon. We pray that your memories of Aaron will be a blessing and comfort. With much love, Barbara, Ed, Max & Jake

Dan and Linda Tennies

December 27, 2010

Dear Nancy, Erik and Jeremy,

Our hearts go out to you at this difficult time. We were blessed to have met Aaron and your family so many years ago at the Erin Town picnic and to have remained friends for years. We pray peace for you and your loved ones. Know Aaron will be missed.

Shalom -

The Tennies Family

Doris Appelbaum

December 25, 2010

Dear Nancy, Erik, and Jeremy - Please let me know if there is anything I can do to ease your pain. I was so sorry to hear of your loss. I send to you hugs and prayers for a peaceful future.

December 24, 2010

Dear Nancy, Erik and Jeremy,

Larry and I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to you and your family at this difficult time. We pray that HaShem will give you peace and comfort.

Larry and Cindy Eckert
Glendale, Wisconsin

Showing 1 - 68 of 68 results

Make a Donation
in Aaron Zelman's name

Memorial Events
for Aaron Zelman

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Aaron's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Aaron Zelman's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more