Jeffery L. Zaves

Jeffery L. Zaves, age 52, Menasha, passed away on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at St. Elizabeth Hospital after a 9 year battle with cancer.
He was born on April 9th, 1973 to David & Marjorie (Dassow) Zaves and was a Phillips High School Class of 1991 graduate. While growing up in Phillips, there was never a dull moment having four brothers. Time was often spent together outdoors, fishing, shooting hoops or pick up games at the hockey rink with all of the neighborhood kids, only stopping when darkness fell or mom yelled for supper.
He married Gloria Breu in Milladore on October 26th, 1996 and they had two amazing daughters, Cassie and Maddie, who became the center of his world. He was a kind, loving husband and devoted dad who enjoyed every moment together whether it be big or small.
Jeff was a man of many passions. He enjoyed playing all sports, board games that he would somehow always win, crafting (he was never afraid of glitter), creating Christmas displays on every inch of the yard and ALL things Disney. But most of all he loved coaching, because not only did it give him a chance to connect with his daughters but also make a difference in others lives, building friendships and memories that would grow beyond the game.
He had an incredible ability to spark a conversation and connect with everyone around him. He would do anything to make others smile and laugh, never living life too seriously. He once made the half court shot at a basketball half-time promotion and was so excited he did what he thought was a cartwheel in the middle of the court for all to enjoy.
Jeff is survived by his wife, Gloria, daughters Cassie and Maddie; brothers Mike (Kelly), Appleton; Mark (Crystal), Hortonville; Chris (Tara), Evansville, IN; Dan (Jamie) Colorado Springs, CO; sisters-in-law Deb (Harvey) Sobiech, Reedsville; Kim (Scott) Mancl, Auburndale; Kristen Breu, Marshfield; Roberta (Dan) Lila; brothers-in-law Jeff (Jeanine) Breu, Marshfield; Rick (Sandi) Breu, DePere and many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his dad, David; mother-in-law Charlene; father-in-law Robert; brother-in-law Randy, niece Heather; niece Breana; great nephew Atticus.
A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, November 14th, at Valley Funeral Home, 2211 N Richmond Street, Appleton. Visitation will take place from 2:00 p.m. until the time of service. For online condolences, please visit www.valleyfh.com.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be created in his name.
Gloria, Cassie and Maddie would like to thank all of our family and friends who have given an outpouring of love, prayers, encouragement and support through all of these difficult years and helped give Jeff the strength and determination to keep fighting each day.
We would also like to give a special thank you to Dr. Justine Bruce at UW Health Carbone Cancer Center in Madison for understanding from the beginning that Jeff was someone who wouldn't take no for an answer and never stopped researching options. Because of your care and compassion we were able to have more time to spend as a family making memories we will cherish.... Also for understanding that he deserved that sticker after each visit (and yes, he kept them all).
"Each day we face challenges, but it's only up to you, to either run from them or embrace them with courage and face them head on!!
"I think it's the lack of hope that comes and gets you. See, I believe in hope. I believe in "believe". -Ted Lasso
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