Eduardo Zavala

Eduardo Zavala, also known as "Wayo," passed away on October 15, 2024, at the UW Madison Hospital due to complications from a heart attack. 

He was born on March 4, 1969, in Del Rio, Texas, the son of Herminio Zavala and Eustaquia de la Rosa. Wayo graduated from Del Rio High School in 1987. He dedicated much of his professional life to serving his community through various roles. Wayo began his career at Seneca Foods East in Cambria where he worked as a maintenance mechanic for approximately 12 years during which time he married Nohemi L. Morua. Following this he took on the position of a foreman with the Wisconsin Southern Railroad, responsible for overseeing the installation of railroad ties. His journey continued at Cliffs Implement in Friesland and finally with the Scharine Group in 2015, where he maintained and installed diary equipment across the midwest.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Wayo had a profound passion for life’s simple joys. He loved to grill out and cherished moments spent hunting with family, always ensuring that gatherings were filled with laughter and camaraderie. Working on cars was another of his interests, alongside his genuine willingness to help anyone in need.

Wayo leaves behind his beloved partner, Kari Burke and her three children: Kira, Kyla, and Dakota; as well as his three children: Raquel Zavala, Eduardo Zavala Jr., and Raul Zavala. He is also survived by three brothers: Oscar (Petra) Zavala, Jose (Martha) Zavala, and Raul (Carmen) Zavala; a sister, Ermerejilda (Horacio) Garza; and sisters-in-law: Josefina Zavala and Maria Zavala. Additionally, he will be remembered fondly by many nieces and nephews who held him dear.

Wayo was preceded in death by his parents: Herminio Zavala and Eustaquia de la Rosa; and two brothers: Roberto Zavala and Pedro Zavala; as well as two nephews: Gilberto Zavala and Roberto Zavala Jr.

Eduardo Zavala’s impact on his family and community will be dearly missed, and he will forever be remembered for his kindness, hard work, and the joy he brought into the lives of those he loved.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, October 18, 2024 at Werner-Harmsen Funeral Home in Waupun from 6-9 p.m.