Joseph Henry Zang

Joseph Henry Zang died peacefully at home on March 27, 2026 after a short stay in the hospital from effects of Parkinson’s Disease. Joe was born on July 15, 1935 in Baltimore, Md. to Joseph and Teresa (Schmitt) Zang and raised by his stepfather John J. Popp. After high school, he worked at Arundel Brooks concrete plant that made concrete for the original Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Following his employment, he entered the Maryland National Guard on August 18, 1952 and retired as a Colonel (brevet) Brigadier General on August 17, 1991. He married Shirley Chalk on October 23, 1955 and they were married for 70 years. Joe and Shirley have a son Mark Zang and 2 granddaughters Danielle Esponiza (and husband Jesus) and Nichole Zang Do (and husband Duy), and great grandson Vinh.

During Joe’s lifetime he had a very quiet demeaner and a very quick wit about things. He enjoyed playing bluegrass and country music playing often with a group to area nursing homes, enjoyed family and friends, woodworking, golf, and taking care of his lawn and home. Joe always said he was a “Jack of all Trades, and a Master of None”. He attended Officer Candidate School. He was a member and Commander of the 29th Division Association of the Maryland National Guard. He was a board member of Garrison Forrest Military Cemetery. He was assistant scout master for Boy Scout Troup 496 and treasurer for Boy Scouts of America Maryland Chapter. Joe was a recipient of a Quilt of Valor in July 2022.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from New York State University.

Joe was predeceased by his parents Joe and Teresa Zang and stepfather John J. Popp, his brother Bill and great-grandchildren Dawn Marie Zang (12/19/2014) and Nathan Alexander Zang (7/20/2021).

Interment will be at Garrison Forrest Military Cemetery, and a Celebration of Life will be planned for the near future.

Online condolences at www.Burrier-Queen.com.