William “Bill” Robert Zapel

William “Bill” Robert Zapel, age 83, of Arbor Vitae, passed away on July 16, 2026 at home. 

Bill was born on December 6, 1942 to Katherine Kapche Zapel and Carl Zapel in Chicago. 

In 1966, Bill met Lynda Lombardi. Bill and Lynda were married on June 1, 1968 and raised a family in Illinois with two daughters.

Bill enjoyed Ham Radio, snowmobiling and driving his UTV. He was a member of the Lakeland ATV Club and the Rhinelander and Tomahawk Ham Radio Clubs.

In 2011, Bill retired and enjoyed relaxing at his home in the Northwoods and contacting people throughout the world on his Ham radios. 

Bill was proceeded in death by Katherine Kapche Zapel and Carl Zapel. He is survived by his wife, Lynda Lombardi Zapel, his two daughters Michelle Zapel Cosgriff Bordner (and her husband Kevin Bordner), Christine Zapel Mandeville (and her husband Robert Mandeville), five grandchildren: Jack (Abby) Cosgriff, Lydia Mandeville, Charlie Cosgriff, Bennett Mandeville and Eliza Mandeville and his brother Robert Zapel whom he loved dearly.

Services will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church in Woodruff, Wisconsin on Friday, July 31, 2026 at 11 a.m. Bolger Funeral Home is assisting the family, www.bolgerfuneral.com for condolences.