For the Family of Joe Zahler

On Monday, November 22nd, at 4:00 a.m Pacific Time I woke to my phone buzzing, I assumed my friends back home forgot the time difference and were calling to wish me a happy birthday, instead I was told that this day was now the day that dad took his last breath here on earth. Papa Joe, was the most faithful and reverent man and I firmly believe that at the time he was called to his new home in heaven he went with joy and open arms.

Papa Joe wasn’t a man of many words, but his actions spoke volumes. My dad set a high bar for how I should be treated, he spoiled me. Every morning in high school he drove me to school, but before we left he would make up my travel mug of coffee and make sure all my things were ready to go. It was the little things like these that he did for others around him without complaint that spoke so deeply to his ability to love through acts of service. Two years ago my dad and I embarked on a cross-country journey to drive me to my new home in Washington, my car was packed so tightly that there was just enough room for driver and passenger to fit in the car. While the journey was long in my cramped car it was 48 hours I will cherish forever. My dad was a comedian in his own right, often without trying. We often compared him to old TV Characters because he kept us on our toes with his newest goofy idea or trend he read about or wanted to try. My dad was a simple man he loved to fish, he loved his family and he was the most devout man I have ever known.

Though he was quiet his absence in our lives is deafening. This pandemic has taken so much from the world and now it has taken an amazing father from a 26-year-old, a 21-year-old, and a sweet baby 14 year old. If dad were here he would tell us not to be sad for him because he is dancing with Jesus so instead, I will be sad for all the time we have lost, for all the moments he won’t be there for, and for all the important people who are yet to come into our lives who won’t have the pleasure of meeting him and being touched by his presence.

My father’s passing so unexpectedly in the aftermath my mother is now widowed. His absence will not only have an emotional toll but a large financial toll since both of my parents have worked hard for many years to uphold what they have. The next few weeks will be filled with many large life-changing decisions and your donation would go towards helping ease the financial strain on our family through these coming months.

Our family has been overwhelmed with the generosity, prayers, and love bestowed on us by our family, friends, and community. We are so blessed to have the amazing support we do. If you cannot give financially please continue to hold us in prayer.

With love,

Mercedes