Rory D. Zillmer

Rory D. Zillmer, 57, of New Lisbon passed away on Sunday, July 27, 2025 at his home. He was born on June 25, 1968 to Richard and Barbara (Johnson) Zillmer in Sparta. He grew up in Cataract, and graduated from Sparta High School. 

Rory married Christel Travis. Together, they had 2 daughters, Stacey Zillmer, and Brittany (Zillmer) Buckmaster. Rory also had a daughter, Amanda Von Ruden, whom he loved very much. 

Rory was a jack of all trades. He grew up painting on bridges, and the majority of his life welding, working for the state as an EAB trapper; and then found happiness at Smart Sand, as a maintenance man in Oakdale. He cherished the beauty of the outdoors; finding peace in fishing, hunting, the thrill of riding his Harley, and listening to music as loud as he could! Above all, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandkids, who were the light of his life.

Rory is survived by his children, Amanda Von Ruden, Stacey Zillmer (fiancé, Aaron Shaw), and Brittany (Zillmer) Buckmaster (husband, Beau Buckmaster); grandchildren, Lorelie, Olive, Ivy, Lilly, and Amanda’s children; brothers, Rick and Randy; the mother of his children, Christel (Travis) Zillmer; many other nieces and nephews, relatives and friends; as well as his beloved dogs, Buck and Pilot.

He was preceded in death by his parents. 

A Memorial Service will be held at 12 p.m. on Friday, August 22, 2025 at Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, with Pastor Randy Williamson officiating.

A Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. on Friday, at the funeral home.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Friday, August 22, 2025 at R&R’s First and Last Chance, Black River Falls.

Online condolences may be offered at www.schanhoferfh.com.

Lanham-Schanhofer Funeral Home and Cremation, Sparta, is assisting the family with arrangements.

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