Claire T. Zellner

Claire Therese Zellner, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away peacefully at the age of 68 on Monday, July 14, 2025.

Born on August 12, 1956, in Milwaukee, WI, Claire was a cherished daughter, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend, whose radiant spirit illuminated the lives of all who knew her.

A proud graduate of Greenfield High School's class of 1974, Claire enlisted in the WAC (Women’s Army Corps) in January 1975. After wheel and track vehicle training courses, she was stationed at the 123rd Maintenance Battalion in Furth, Germany. After active duty, Claire enlisted into the Wisconsin National Guard. In the 1980s, Claire attended the Wisconsin Military Academy and was Wisconsin’s first female officer to attend Fort Sill’s Field Artillery school. She was later assigned to the 57th Field Artillery Brigade serving with her father and two brothers. Later she served in the 64th RAOC (Rear Area Operations Center) at Richard Street Armory, and the Army Reserves in the 338th Training Command at Fort McCoy. Claire was also a founding member of the VCRT (Veterans Community Relations Team).

Claire's life was a testament to her passion for service, a legacy that was further cemented through her 33 years of commitment to AT&T, her vital role at the Milwaukee Police Department 911 for two years, and seven years as a dispatcher with the Milwaukee VA Police Department. She was also a proud member of the CWA Local 4603 and Milwaukee Area Harbor Council.

Claire's love for her family knew no bounds. She was a devoted mother to her daughters, Shelly (Corey) Reed and Nicole Crawford, and her son, Christopher Stewart, Oma to her grandchildren, Samantha Stewart (CJ Guerrero) and Evelyn Crawford, and dog mom to Captain. She cherished every moment spent with them. Claire's brother, Bruce Zellner, also held a special place in her heart. Her family was her pride and joy, and she nurtured each relationship with tenderness and warmth. She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Clarence Zellner and Jean Walker, and her siblings, sister Susan (John) Sickler and brothers Paul, Mark, and Kurt Zellner, leaving behind a legacy of love and memories that will be forever treasured.

Claire always had a heart to serve and enjoyed volunteering. She was a longtime volunteer and community member at the Great Lakes Hemophilia Foundation, where she made many lifelong friends and connections. Claire's involvement with the Club Eichenlaub of Milwaukee was not just a pastime but a reflection of her zest for life and her love for her heritage. She was an enthusiastic volunteer at Milwaukee German Fest with her nieces and nephews, where she shared her passion and joy with the community. Her infectious laughter and welcoming smile were staples at these events, and her presence will be deeply missed.

Those who knew Claire would describe her as a loving, passionate, and kind soul. She approached life with an open heart, ready to lend an ear or offer support to anyone in need. Her generous spirit extended beyond her family and friends, touching the lives of many through her volunteer work and community involvement.

As we bid farewell to Claire T. Zellner, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a woman dearly loved. Her spirit of kindness and legacy of love will continue to inspire and guide us. Claire's absence will be felt deeply, but the memories she created, the lives she touched, and the love she spread will forever remain as a bright light in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

In honoring her life, we remember Claire not just for the roles she played but for the extraordinary person she was. Her journey through life was marked by an unwavering commitment to her family, her country, and her community. Claire T. Zellner was truly one of a kind, and her memory will be cherished for eternity. Rest in peace, dear Claire; your legacy will live on.

A memorial Gathering will take place at Max Sass Funeral Home, 8910 W. Drexel Ave. on Friday August 22, 9AM to 11AM with a memorial service at 11 AM. Military honors and interment will take place at St. Adalbert Cemetery, 3801 S. 6th St. following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to Disabled American Veterans in Claire's memory.