MADISON-- Zachary James Wachtendonk, 30, beloved son, passed away on March 18, 2009 at St. Mary's Hospital from complications due to asthma and a seizure disorder caused by Agent Orange. He was born on Feb. 8, 1979 in Madison, the only son of James and Mary "Sukie" (Alexander) Wachtendonk. Zachary will be forever loved and remembered for his kindness, strength, integrity and courage. He will also be remembered and cherished by family and friends.

Despite many physical roadblocks, he was able to overcome and graduate from Madison LaFollette Class of 1997 and earned two degrees from Madison Area Technical College. While attending M.A.T.C. he worked at the help desk greeting and advising students and visitors. Zak also worked at the Willie Street Co-Op and wrote the newsletters for the Epilepsy Center. Most recently he was employed with the State of Wisconsin, Department of Administration through TEK Systems, where he was able to use his computer skills. He loved his job.

Zak is survived by his parents, Jim and Sukie of Richland Center; his sister, Reeanne (Jason) Rogers of Stevens Point; paternal grandmother, Dorothy Wachtendonk of Milton; niece, Morgan Wachtendonk and nephew, Chuckie Raschka; paternal uncles and aunts, Dan (Yvonne) Wachtendonk, Bill (Chris) Wachtendonk, Alan (Wendi) Wachtendonk, John (Dawn) Wachtendonk, Donna (Scott) Nelson and Bob (Karyn) Wachtendonk; maternal uncles and aunts, Marilyn Baker, Julie (Jim) Dougherty, Janet (Alan) Golley, Kathy Dennison, Linda (Angelo) Mentz and Linda (David) Voster; and numerous cousins and many friends. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, John J. and Marie Alexander; paternal grandfather, William Wachtendonk; uncle, John Alexander; and aunts, Lisa Wachtendonk, Carol Prosonic, Loretta Alexander and Lorraine Alexander.

A Memorial Service celebrating his life will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2009 at 3 p.m. at the CRESS FUNERAL HOME. A time of gathering will be held at the funeral home from noon until the time of service. The family requests that you bring a flower to be placed by his urn.

Cress Funeral and Cremation Service
3325 E. Washington Ave.
(608) 249-6666
www.cressfuneralservice.com