Roger R. Zahnow

Roger Zahnow, 89, passed away peacefully after a ten year battle with Alzheimer's disease on January 17, 2026, in Carmel, Indiana. Born on October 2, 1936, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Roger lived a life defined by integrity, service, and unwavering devotion to his family. Roger had a quiet spiritual side to him and shared a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

From a young age, Roger demonstrated exceptional athletic ability, with baseball quickly becoming a central passion. His talent and dedication led him to sign a professional contract straight out of high school with the Milwaukee Braves Farm System. Though a career ending injury brought his time on the field to an early close, Roger’s love for the game never faded. His legacy in baseball was honored with his induction into the Eau Claire Baseball Hall of Fame honoring his amateur baseball achievements. Roger was inducted alongside his hero and fellow inductee, Hank Aaron.

Following his baseball career, Roger answered a higher calling and enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1956. He served with distinction for four years as an Aircraft Radar and Warning Specialist, including a deployment to Saudi Arabia. His military service reflected his deep sense of duty and discipline, values that would continue to guide him throughout his life.

After completing his service, Roger pursued higher education at Ball State University. There he earned a degree in U.S. History with a minor in Sociology. His academic pursuits mirrored his lifelong curiosity and desire to understand people and the world around him.

Roger was family oriented and known for his steady presence and quiet strength. He was the kind of man who showed up always attentive and involved in the lives of his children and grandchildren. His hugs were legendary: warm, reassuring, and sincere. They were just one of the many ways he let those around him know they mattered.

He is survived by his children: Kelly (Earl) Kollock, Christian (Kristin) Zahnow, Jacqueline Zahnow, and Kim Zahnow; ten grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was previously married to Donora Reckard-Zahnow, the mother of his children.

Roger was preceded in death by his mother, Lora Grace Broaddus; his father, Frank Christian Zahnow; his sisters, Frances Mason and Cora Nell Rossow; and his brother, Byron Zahnow.

Throughout his life, Roger enjoyed a wide range of hobbies that reflected both his active spirit and thoughtful nature. He found joy in reading, fishing, bowling, and playing pool. He was a long time member of the Muncie YMCA where he excelled at ping pong, handball and racquetball. He loved watching live sports with family and was a devoted Green Bay Packers fan.

Always organized and very dependable, Roger was someone you could count on without hesitation. His loyalty ran deep; he was faithful not only in word but in action. Whether through small gestures or steadfast support during life’s challenges, he offered strength and comfort to those around him.

Roger Zahnow leaves behind a legacy of resilience, humility, and love. A man who lived not for recognition but for connection. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire those whose lives he touched. A Funeral with full military honors will be held on January 23, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Indiana Funeral Care 8151 Allisonville Rd. , Indianapolis, IN. A public viewing will begin at 2:00 p.m. with a funeral service following at 3:00 p.m.