Edward “Ed” C. Zais, age 86, of Irma, WI, passed away on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at his home. Ed was born on February 25, 1940, in Chippewa Falls, WI, to the late Joseph and Virginia (Schoerner) Zais. He attended high school before entering the United States Army, where he proudly served his country. Following his military service, Ed worked in construction in Milwaukee, WI, where he met the love of his life, Janet Schock. The couple was united in marriage on May 19, 1961.
In the 1970s, they moved to Tomahawk, though Ed remained dedicated to his work, commuting back and forth to Milwaukee to continue his construction career. In 1976, Ed proudly purchased his home in Tomahawk and became the owner and operator of EZ Trucking. He spent many years as an over-the-road truck driver, a profession he truly loved. If not for age catching up with him, Ed would have continued working well beyond his retirement years, his strong work ethic and dedication were evident throughout his life. Ed’s family meant everything to him and he worked tirelessly to provide for them. In his free time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time outdoors. He also had a special place in his heart for his beloved dogs, Dillon and Diesel.
Survivors include his wife of nearly 65 years, Janet Zais; his son, Steve (Roberta) Zais; his daughter, Cathie (Rick) Kluckman; his sister, Joanne Garcia; his nephew, Jeff Zais; and his niece, Jennifer Furgeson. Ed is further survived by his grandchildren, Lynette Cavett, Heather (Tony) Hendrickson, Jenna Zais, Issac Zais, Josh Zais, Zach Zais, and Abby Zais; and his great-grandchildren, Dante, Neveah, Eli, and Cadyn Hendrickson, Landen Hattery, Jazmin and Sabastian Hays, and Luthien and Mardeline Khan. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jospeh and Virginia; his son, Gregory Zais; his brother, Joseph (Alice) Zais; his sister, Jackie (Reuben) Powers; his nephews, John Zais and Bobby Garcia; and his favorite fur companion, Buddy.
A celebration of life gathering will be held at a later date. Inurnment will take place at the Oak Hill Cemetery. Generations Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family. You may view Ed’s obituary and leave online condolences at generationsfuneral.com.
