Zena Voelker Weimer

Zena Voelker Weimer, passed away on March 8, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on March 7, 1940, in Kenmore, New York. Growing up in Alden, NY she carried the warmth and memories of her hometown with her throughout a well-lived life.

Zena graduated from Alden High School where she was a cheerleader. She attended SUNY Cortland, where she earned a bachelor's degree in education and was a member of the Sigma Rho sorority, forming friendships she treasured for a lifetime. She went on to earn a master's degree in education from SUNY Buffalo State.

Zena had a lifelong love of learning, with a special fondness for history, and delighted in exploring both fiction and non-fiction. She cherished the lively conversations and laughter shared with her book club friends, and she joyfully passed on her passion for reading and learning to her children and grandchildren, inspiring curiosity and a love of knowledge in the next generation.

Zena's professional life was marked by a passion for education and connection. She taught Social Studies for many years at Clarence Schools in New York, then sold homes with Real Estate One in Rochester Hills, Michigan. Later, she joined the staff of the Registrar's Office at Oakland University.

Zena loved working with her hands and creating special items for her family and friends. She made knitted sweaters, scarves, and hats; sewed Halloween costumes, dresses, blankets, and baptism gowns; crafted Raggedy Andy dolls and tooth fairy pillows; and created needlepoint treasures and artwork. She affectionately called these projects her "labors of love."

She had a love for adventures, traveling across the United States and around the world to the bustling streets of Hong Kong and Manila, the serene landscapes of New Zealand and Bali, the rich cultures of China, Singapore, and Bangkok, and the historic charm of England, Ireland, France, and Italy. Howard and Zena loved spending winter weeks soaking up the Florida sunshine, often with a good book in hand.

Zena delighted in making holidays and celebrations memorable for her family. She created traditions filled with joy and creativity-scavenger hunts, assigning each person their own color of ribbon for gifts, and handcrafting stockings that became treasured keepsakes. She also loved setting a beautiful table with silver, crystal, china, and special silver napkins holders, and preparing favorite meals with Howard, from prime rib to buffalo wings and grilled chicken, turning every gathering into a celebration of love, laughter, and family togetherness.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Zena Voelker, and her sister, Margaret Wahlgren. She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Howard Weimer; her sons, Jason (Melissa) Weimer and Joshua (Cyndee) Weimer; her brother-in-law, Gordon Wahlgren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Her seven grandchildren-Marshall, Nolan, Van, John, Avery, Crosby, and Kate Corley-were her greatest pride and joy. Whether cheering them on in their pursuits or cherishing quiet moments together, they brought endless light and happiness to her life.

Zena will be remembered for her elegance, sharp mind, her creative hands, and the enduring love she poured into her family. She will be profoundly missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Neighborhood House of Rochester Hills https://www.ranh.org/donate-now.