Joe Zihlman

On Saturday, February 9, 2013, we lost an extraordinary man who tried to live an ordinary life. Everett Joe Zihlman, 83, of Commerce passed away at home after an extended battle with cancer. He began his life in Wichita Falls, Texas, on February 22, 1929, then relocated to Dallas. He worked 28 years for the City of Dallas. He retired with his family to Commerce and served 28 years as a police officer earning his Master Police Officer certification.

Among his extensive accomplishments, he achieved a Master Electrician's status, was a member of the Knights of Columbus, a member of the Commerce Masonic Lodge No. 439, Endowed Member of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry and a Shriner. His most treasured accomplishment was his Commerce PD "Officer of the Year" award in 2006 before he became ill.

He was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association and Texas Rifle Association and the Sons of Confederate Veterans. He was an expert marksman and gunsmith. He was also a self-taught musician playing many instruments. His favorites were guitar, mandolin and banjo. He also sang and his love for the "old tunes" was limitless.

His heart was as big as they come and there was never a stray (animal or human) that he would not help when he could. His generosity extended to community service, serving the West Delta Water Corporation as a Master Electrician for many years.

He had an exceptional memory and always shared his extensive knowledge of people, places and things with anyone who would listen. He was a very social man and enjoyed visiting with friends most every evening.

He is survived by his wife, Kay, and their children: daughter, Cheri Broussard and her husband, Frenchie of Madisonville; son, Richard Collier and his wife, Tina of Blossom; daughter, Mary (Becky) Zihlman of Cedar Hill,; and, son, Joe and his wife Barbara Zihlman of DeSoto.

He is also survived by four grandchildren: Shane Broussard, Michelle Jeter, Denise Smith and Melissa Keister; and nine great-grandchildren: Aaron and Hannah Broussard, Sydney and Cameron Jeter, Destany, Sarah and Haven Keisler, Robin and Christopher Smith.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marie C. Peerce and Joseph E. Zihlman and his brother, Joseph Edward Zihlman, Jr.

Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, February 14, 2013, at 12:00 o'clock Noon at Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Commerce. Interment will follow at Shiloh Cemetery.

Rosary will be held at 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 13, 2012, at Jones-Walker & Son Funeral Home. Visitation will follow from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m.