Bill Edwin Zak

Lieutenant Colonel William Zak (U.S. Army, Ret.), a dedicated patriot, decorated veteran, and cherished family man, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2026, in Gig Harbor, Washington, at the age of 83.

Born on May 6, 1943, in Memphis, Tennessee, Bill’s early life was a journey across the country. He grew up making memories in Chisolm, Minnesota; Tacoma, Washington; San Antonio, Texas; Benicia, California; and Pullman, Washington. 

After graduating from Lincoln High School in Tacoma, he attended Washington State University, beginning a lifelong love for his WSU Cougars, his community and his country.

In 1965, Bill answered the call to duty and joined the United States Army. Over a distinguished 20-year military career, he served with honor in the Vietnam War and was deployed to South Korea and Europe. He retired as a highly decorated Lieutenant Colonel, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, courage, and service to his nation.

Following his military career, Bill found great joy in entrepreneurship and love. In November 1989, he married Debbie, sharing 37 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they started and ran a successful greeting card business. The venture perfectly blended work and play, taking them on golf trips and vacations all over the region.

An avid athlete and the ultimate family man, Bill was an accomplished golfer and bowler. He was equally famous for his endless supply of classic dad and grandpa jokes and his ability to play (at least for 2-3 songs) around 5 instruments, always bringing laughter to family gatherings. He was fortunate to share his life with many lifelong friends, teammates, and fellow soldiers. 

Bill’s greatest pride was his family, and he was devoted to the legacy and history of those generations before him. He is survived by his loving wife, Debbie; his brothers, John and Gary Zak; his children, Bob and Wendy; his stepchildren, Denny and Colleen; and his legacy lives on through his five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Bill Zak will be remembered as a cherished son, father, brother, cousin, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, teammate, soldier, and true patriot. His warmth, service, intellect, and humor will never be forgotten.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, November 2, 2026, at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, Washington, where he will be laid to rest. A reception following the ceremony will be held at the Ram Restaurant at Kent Station, 512 Ramsay Way Ste 4-103, Kent, WA.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Port Orchard VFW Post 2669, 3100 SE Mile Hill Drive, Port Orchard, WA, 98366.