Zillig, Christian Valentine "Chris" Of Mequon and Naples, FL, formerly of Whitefish Bay. Entered into Eternal Life on July 27, 2010. Beloved son of the late Valentine and Josephine (nee Mazzoni) Zillig. Chris is survived by his loving wife Nancy, his three children; Megan (Steve) Prekosovich, Molly Zillig and Val Zillig; his three grandchildren; Sam Broadnax and Nick and Laura Prekosovich. Further survived by his sister Joella (Joe) Cramblit of Glenview, IL, sister-in-law Gloria Zillig of Milwaukee, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and dear friends. Chris was preceded in death by his brother Quentin Zillig and nephew Matt Zillig. Chris was born on April 12, 1934 and grew up in Wauwatosa, attending St. Bernard's Catholic School and Wauwatosa High School. Many of the friends he made at St. Bernard's remained his closet friends throughout his life. After graduating from Marquette University in 1957, he served two years with the U.S. Army in Europe. Upon his return, Chris became a banker. Eventually, his true entrepreneurial spirit took over and he started his own real estate development company that he operated successfully until his death. In his business dealings, Chris was known for his good humor and honesty that extended into his personal life. Chris spent many hours advising young up and coming real estate developers who were interested in starting their own businesses. He was also active in many charitable organizations and was a past board member of Villa of St. Francis. Besides his business, Chris loved cross word puzzles, bridge, golf, reading biographies, world history, and at the end of the day, he liked nothing better than to sit down and play the piano. One of Chris's best qualities was his ability to connect with people. He was an up-front man- what you saw was what you got. His family will forever remember him for his gentle manner, genuine humor, kind words, and true patience. He will be deeply missed by his family and all whose lives he touched. The family would like to extend a very heartfelt thank you to Dr. Chris Budny of Cedarburg, WI and Dr. Kae Ferber of Naples, FL, for all they did for Chris and the Zillig family over the past few years, who were both a true blessing. Chris spent his last months at the Elizabeth Residence in Bayside, their staff and the staff of Seasons Hospice, and Horizon Hospice were all so professional and yet very caring to Chris, we will forever be thankful for their wonderful care. Visitation will take place on Tuesday, August 3, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at the Feerick Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, at 10:30 AM at Lumen Christi Catholic Church, 2700 West Mequon Road, at the corner of Range Line Road, Mequon. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Chris's name may be made to Lumen Christi Educational Fund, 11300 N. St. James Lane 28 West, Mequon, WI, 53092 or Villa of St. Francis, 1910 West Ohio Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53215.

Published in Milwaukee Journal Sentinel from July 30 to Aug. 1, 2010