Richard James Zellers

It is with profound sadness that the family of Richard “Dick” Zellers announces his peaceful passing at home on April 18, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on March 20, 1938, in Mt. Vernon, Ohio, Dick was a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to many, whose warmth and humor touched everyone he met.

Dick was the son of the late George W. Zellers and Betty Grace Barnard, who instilled in him the values that defined his life. Growing up in Youngstown, Ohio, he attended Wilson High School before moving to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he graduated from Mt Lebanon High School.

In 1956, Dick enlisted in the United States Air Force. His service, from 1956 to 1960, took him from Misawa Air Base in Japan to Cottonwood Air Force Station in Idaho, experiences that broadened his perspective and deepened his appreciation for life’s simple joys.  After his time in the military, he continued to enjoy reading about the lives of those who served.

Following his military service, Dick embarked on a career in the credit union industry. Beginning at the Pittsburgh Press Credit Union and moving to CUNA Mutual Insurance Society, his dedication and leadership led him to rise through the ranks.  Through his 25-year career at CUNA Mutual, he moved from a Field Representative in Butler, Pennsylvania, to the position of National Account Vice President in Madison, Wisconsin. His commitment extended beyond his professional duties, serving as a director on the Board of CUNA Credit Union including time as Chairman of the Board of Directors.

On September 13, 1980, Dick married the love of his life, Mary Lu Skaife.  Together, they blended their families, creating a warm and welcoming home filled with laughter, love, and countless memories. Their union was a testament to the power of love and family, and they celebrated 45 wonderful years together.

Dick’s legacy is carried forward by his devoted wife, Mary Lu; his children, Marcia Zellers, Kelly Christine Rollando, Steven Zellers (Suwanna), Melissa Zellers (Andrew Hansen), Lori Black (Tim), Ron Skaife (Michelle), and Cheryl Steinberg (Allan); and his brother, Curt Zellers. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, John Lauper (Pam), and his beloved grandchildren, Veronica Zellers, Jean-Luc Piriou (Baptiste), Sophia Rollando, Sydney Zellers, Severin Zellers, Anya Hansen, Elias Hansen, Candice Crom (Josh), Haley Skaife (Chris), Brianna Skaife, Madelyn House (Korbel), Elizabeth Skaife, Courtney Skaife, Ashley Steinberg, and Danielle Steinberg (Angel). His legacy continues through his five great-grandchildren, Natalie Skaife, Jackson Dickerson, Chance Dickerson, Ashton Gaeta Skaife, and Maya Gaeta.

Dick was preceded in death his brother-in-law, Bill Lauper, whom he had a special bond with.

A man of many interests and an active person, Dick found joy in music, classic cars, camping, boating, and golf. While living in Madison, Wisconsin he was an active member of the Madison Sail and Power Squadron, where he served as Commander. He participated in golf groups both in Madison, Wisconsin and Spring Branch, Texas.  He shared these activities with his family and many friends.  His faith was an integral part of his life, and he was an active member of Bethel Methodist Church of the Hill Country near Canyon Lake, Texas.

Dick’s life was a testament to the power of love, laughter, and friendship. He cherished his family and friends, always making room for new connections while nurturing lifelong relationships. His laughter and joy will be dearly missed but fondly remembered.

A celebration of Dick’s life will be held on May 5 at 2:00 pm at Bethel Methodist Church of the Hill Country.  For those unable to attend the service, a live stream link will be provided on this site closer to the date of the service.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bethel Methodist Church of the Hill Country or Bulverde Area Rural Library District (Mammen Family Public Library).

Dick Zellers’s life and laughter will live on in those who loved him.  His often quoted saying “If you can’t laugh, you can’t live” will stay with us as we continue to celebrate his full and varied life.   While he may have left us, his spirit will continue to inspire and uplift all who knew him.