Philip C. Ziegler

Philip C. Ziegler, age 90, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 20, 2025, surrounded by his family. Phil was born on January 30, 1935, son of the late Edward and Linda (Plamann) Ziegler.

Born in the family farm house in the Town of Center, Phil grew up with deep roots in the values of family and farming. Those early years shaped a life filled with purpose, generosity, and strong work ethic. Phil proudly served in the United States Army, stationed in Mineral Wells, TX, where he carried out his duties with honor. On September 18, 1954, he married the love of his life, Beverly Riehl. Together they shared 70 wonderful years of marriage, filled with laughter, dedication, and love. Their bond and devotion to one another was a testament to lasting commitment and companionship and was one of Phil’s proudest accomplishments.

A hardworking man with a mind for business and a heart for his community, Phil worked at Riverside Paper Company and later started Dairyland Feeder Pigs working alongside his son, Jeff. Known as a “wheeler and dealer,” Phil bought and sold countless tractors and equipment. He also lent his talents to landscaping, helping shape the beauty of many local spaces.

One of Phil’s proudest achievements was helping to build the brick patio in the back of St. Peter’s church where he was a lifelong member.

A natural leader and community builder, Phil was also one of the founders of the GFC Baseball League at Plamann Park. He took great joy in coaching and encouraging his players for many years.

Above all else, Phil loved his family. He found the most joy in backyard gatherings, surrounded by children, grandchildren, and extended family and friends. He was deeply proud of all their accomplishments and cherished every moment spent together, never missing a chance to visit or connect with those he cared about most.

Phil is survived by his children: Jeff (special friend Dawn) Ziegler, Robin (Scott) Hietpas, Todd (Barb) Ziegler, and Jay (Tami) Ziegler; grandchildren: Michael (Jenny) Ziegler, Alyssa (Alex) Haas, Rachel (Matt) Chevremont, Donny (Amy) Hietpas, Becca (Jake) Ricker, Phil (Kelsey) Hietpas, Luke Hietpas, Ben (Kim) Ziegler, Nick (Whitney) Ziegler, Sam Ziegler, and Gracie Ziegler; great grandchildren: Kai and Miles Ziegler, Felix and Pippa Haas, Logan, Kate, Claire, and Audrey Chevremont, Paisley, Scotty, Bobby, Waylon, and Halle Hietpas, Jonah, Faith, and Levi Ricker, Hank, Bennett, and Michael Hietpas, Easton and Remi Ziegler, and Savannah and Cam Ziegler.  

In addition to his parents, Phil was preceded in death by his dear wife, Beverly, who surely was there to welcome him at the gates of Heaven with open arms.

A Funeral Service for Phil will be held on Monday, July 28, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. at St. Peter Ev. Lutheran Church, N2740 N. French Rd., Appleton, with full military honors to follow. Visitation will begin at the church at 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service. For online condolences, please visit www.verkuilenfh.com.

Phil’s family is thankful for St. Croix Hospice and Country Villa in Freedom for the loving care he received in his final days.

Phil knew Jesus as his Savior. He is a loved and forgiven child of God, who is now enjoying the beauty of Heaven with mom. We will keep his love in our hearts forever, until we meet again. And won’t that Resurrection Day be grand for us all. God is so good! We love you, Dad!