Douglas C. Zwank

Douglas (Doug) Charles Zwank passed away peacefully on Thanksgiving Day, at the age of 77. The timing feels fitting, as Doug was always someone who gave thanks for the many blessings and good fortunes in his life. 

Doug was a Wisconsin man to his core - born there, lived there, died there. He grew up on the west side of Madison and attended Edgewood High School. He received a bachelor's degree and a master's degree from the University of Wisconsin. He proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps in Vietnam and this difficult experience deeply shaped the person he was. 

Doug had several interesting jobs in his career including special investigator for the State of Wisconsin, private eye (Wisconsin Detective Agency), computer network manager for the US Department of Agriculture and mayor of Middleton. 

He had many adventures in life including five years of living with his young family on St. Simons Island in southeast Georgia and spending winters with Kathy in Fort Myers, Florida in retirement. He never missed out on Christmas in Wisconsin, though. He passionately loved running, reading and keeping up with world affairs. He never shied away from writing his opinion to the local newspapers. 

He was devoted to his children and cherished his grandchildren. Doug is preceded in death by many people he loved including his parents June and Bob, his infant brother Michael and other family members and close friends. His best friend, Mike Leslie, always held a special place in his heart. He is survived by many he loved including his dear wife Kathy, his sons Mike, Pat and Ben, his grandchildren Finn, Bodie, Joey and Sami, his daughters-in-law Nienke, Taija and Maddi, his sister Karen Wagner (Chris) and so many other family members, friends, and neighbors. Doug was a devout Catholic but appreciated the value of other world religions. He was always excited to learn and think about the mysteries of life and the universe. He strongly believed that death is not an end but a transition and to do our best to not mourn his passing. There will be no services per Doug’s request. In place of flowers or memorials, please send any donations in his honor to Doctors Without Borders or Mercy Ships. 

Please share your memories of Doug here on his tribute wall.

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6021 University Ave. Madison

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