Dale R. Zenk

Dale R. Zenk, 85, of Thomson passed away Wednesday, January 1, 2025 at Big Meadows in Savanna surrounded by loved ones. Funeral Services will be 11:00 am, Monday, January 6, 2025 at the Clinton Chapel Snell-Zornig Funeral Homes & Crematory. Burial will be in the Lower York Cemetery in Thomson. Serving as pallbearers will be Luke Williams, Aiden Williams, Alton Williams, Lauren Zenk, Brian Heimbaugh, and Steve Heimbaugh. Honorary pallbearers will be Leland Zenk and Jeff Heimbaugh. Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the service time at the funeral home. Online condolences may be expressed by visiting his obituary at www.snellzornig.com. Dale Richard Zenk was born October 11, 1939 in Thomson, Illinois, the son of Harold and Ada (Mason) Zenk. He attended Thomson York Community High School and served in the United States Army from 1963-1965 and was stationed in Panama. He worked for Dixon-Union Construction for many years. Dale worked as a construction laborer on many projects, such as roads and bridges over the Mississippi and as general labor for numerous construction projects for Jorgenson's, Zenk & Espy, and others. He was a member of Dixon Union. Dale also drove semi trucks and ran his own business as a commercial fisherman (even though he would never eat fish). Dale was known as the best and hardest worker many had ever seen! After retiring, Dale cherished spending summers at his home in Thomson and winters in central Florida, where he formed many lasting friendships. Family was at the heart of his life, and he treasured every moment spent with them. Father’s Day was a special tradition, celebrated yearly at his daughter’s home, where he proudly cheered on his grandchildren in their sports activities. Dale’s bond with his siblings was remarkable; he never missed a family reunion, birthday celebration, or the chance to connect with his brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews. He had a passion for travel, enjoying many cruises and creating unforgettable memories, including a cherished trip to Costa Rica. Whether with friends or family, Dale loved sharing stories, laughter, and joyful moments. His zest for life, sweets, and Manny’s pizza will always be remembered. Dale is survived by his daughter Christina (Mark) Williams of Sun Prairie, Wisconsin; four grandchildren: Rachel Williams, Luke (Hannah) Williams, Aiden Williams and Alton Williams; great grandson: Rhett; two sisters: Iona (James) Tack of Savanna, Illinois and Marlys Dreier of Mt. Carroll, Illinois; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Joan Westmark, Irene Gennaro, LeRoy Zenk, DeLaus Zenk and Sharlene Heimbaugh.

Dale R. Zenk

October 11, 1939 - January 1, 2025