William Lawrence Zaic

William Zaic, age 89, formerly of Swanville, MN, died peacefully, surrounded by his family on March 11th. Bill leaves behind his children, Lori Goracke (Donnie), Linda Rukavina (Dan), Steve (Kymberly), John (Tamara), Kirsten Obermeyer (Lori James), 13 Grandchildren and 7.5 Great-Grandchildren. He was born and raised in Hibbing, MN with brothers Robert, Joseph, James, and Alvin. He married Joan Briesemaster in 1958. They had 4 children together and later divorced. After high school he enlisted in the MN Army National Guard, and after 6 years earned the rank of E7/Master Sergeant. After graduating from UMD with a BS in Education he was commissioned as an Artillery 2nd Lt in 1960. His love of country was evident through his 33 years of service and ended in retirement as a Lieutenant Colonel.

Bill was proud of his Iron Range roots and loved bonfires, fishing, lightboats, and being with family at his cabin in Pengilly. His happiest years were spent on his hobby farm in Swanville, MN where he enjoyed caring for his trees, garage sales, pasta parties, his pipe, and his beloved dogs (Sandy the Wonder Dog and Rosie). While on the farm, Bill hosted a popular Sunday morning radio show on KASM radio in Albany, MN where he shared his vast love and knowledge of music, storytelling and community news. Bill was a man of faith and it was a guiding force in his life and his sobriety. He was able to fulfill a lifelong dream of visiting the Holy Land at the age of 80.

A celebration of Bill's life will be held at 11:00 am on April 4 at Eagle Brook Church in Spring Lake Park, MN (8498 Sunset Rd. NE). Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:00. A lunch reception will follow the service. A private burial will be held at Camp Ripley with military honors. In lieu of flowers, please plant or donate a tree in honor of Bill.