Roberta "Bobbi" Zehner

Bobbi Zehner-January 21, 2025

Family lore has it that Bobbi was born laughing. Well, maybe not quite, but she definitely lived joyfully. It is now up to loved ones to retell her stories, with a bit of dramatic flair, of course. And you’re right, if you suspect that she wrote this farewell. 

After one glorious lifetime in Chicago, Madison became home, in 1980, where working with students, who are deaf and hard of hearing, became Bobbi's passion. Her other passion, Larry Zehner, her Grizzly Adams guy, who claims to have “fallen in love with her all over again everyday.” 

Bobbi leaves behind her beloved husband, Larry Zehner, brother Jim Nickels (Betty), nephew George, and sister Norma Shear (Tom Eastham).

Her family of “others” has been amazing. Forever grateful for kinfolk and friend folk, you are invited to gather on May 17 at 11 am at First Unitarian Society of Madison, 900 University Bay Drive to celebrate Bobbi's life. The celebration will also be livestreamed and sign language interpreted and can be viewed here: https://youtube.com/live/WvOgB4X4Jy8?feature=share    

In lieu of flowers, should you feel inclined to make a donation to the work of my FUS family, your contributions will be greatly welcome. 

Thank you, one and all, for helping me to exit laughing.