Harold "Harry" W. Zude

Harold “Harry” W. Zude, age 88, of Edwardsville, IL, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at Anderson Hospital in Maryville, IL.

Harry was born on May 25, 1937, in Staunton, IL, the son of the late Howard and Marie (Hubert) Zude. On June 18, 1966, he married Darleen J. (Stoecklin), at Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville. They would have celebrated 59 years of marriage this month.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Harry was a true role model whose life was grounded in hard work, humility, and unwavering faith. He often responded to life’s uncertainties with the phrase “If the good Lord’s willing,” a reflection of the trust he placed in God’s plan.

Harry proudly served in the United States Air Force for four years as an aircraft mechanic, stationed at Edwards AFB in California, as well as in Germany and France. After returning home, he worked as a skilled carpet installer for over 35 years, earning the respect of his peers through his craftsmanship and integrity. He worked for Justin Kelly Carpet, Specialty Carpet, and Stephens Floor Covering, and was a long-time member of the St. Louis Floor Layers Union #1310.

Faith and family were the center of Harry’s life. He was a devoted member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville, where he served in various capacities. He enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, including fishing at his pond in Staunton, gardening, and growing raspberries. His steady presence, kind heart, and quiet wisdom left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Harry is survived by his beloved wife, Darleen; his sons, Craig Zude of Edwardsville, IL, and Todd Zude and wife Jami of Hamel, IL; his grandchildren, Anna Zude of Hamel, IL, Evan Meyers and fiancée Alexis Garwood of Hamel, IL; Alex Meyers and wife Haley of Hamel, IL, and his brother, Wayne Zude and wife Vicki of Green Valley, AZ; his sister, Marilyn “Cookie” Grider of Staunton, IL; and a special niece, Beth Odum and husband Howard of Battle Creek, MI. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Edwardsville. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m., with Rev. John Shank officiating. Interment will take place at Valley View Cemetery in Edwardsville, with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Ministries in Edwardsville.  Condolences may be expressed online at weberfuneralhome.com.

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