Jeffrey “Jeff” J. Zainer

August 21, 1963 - January 24, 2024

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Krause Funeral Home New Berlin

12401 West National Avenue

New Berlin, WI 53151

Thursday 2/8, 10:00 am - 11:00 am

Krause Funeral Home New Berlin

12401 West National Avenue

New Berlin, WI 53151

Thursday 2/8, 11:00 am

Please consider donations in Jeff’s memory to the American Cancer Society, the Village of Greendale K-9 Unit, or the Autism Society of Southeast Wisconsin.

Jeff is also survived by brothers Gary Zainer (Susan) and Gregory Zainer (Linda), and sister Jennifer Opichka (Steve); sisters-in-law Evelyn Ripp (William), Karan Kotrodimos (Michael Joseph), Christy Dunn (Jeffrey), Penny Kotrodimos (the late Marcus Ness), and Michele Kasch (Rick). Further survived by nieces and nephews Kristopher Zainer (Kristen), Megan Zainer (David Sved), Alex Zainer, Kirsten Opichka, Adam Opichka, Jason Ripp (Caroline), Nicolas Ripp (Kambria), Paul Motto (Cheyenne), Michele Kotrodimos, Dana Ness, and Kyle Kasch. Predeceased by parents James R. and Barbara Zainer, and Nicolas and Lucille Kotrodimos.

Jeff grew up in West Allis, attended West Allis Central High School, and over the years, remained close friends with several classmates. Jeff received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh and pursued his law enforcement career with the Village of Greendale. Before joining the Greendale Police Department in 1985, Jeff was an E.M.T. for the Village and trained in basic firefighting techniques. He then joined the Greendale Police Department as a patrol officer and was one of the first members of the Department’s Emergency Response Team, now known as the S.W.A.T. Team. Jeff led the campaign to establish the Department’s first K-9 Unit. He worked tirelessly to raise funds for the K-9 officer’s protective vest, the Unit’s patrol car and other necessary equipment, and training for the K-9 officer and handler. The success of the K-9 Unit was something of which Jeff was extremely proud.

Jeff was well-known in the community because of his outgoing personality and his ability to control situations in a calm, constructive manner. He was dedicated to protecting citizens, their families, and the community, and continued his extensive specialized training as part of his on-going commitment.

Over the years, Jeff earned recognition for his many contributions to the Department and community and retired as Captain in 2013. Yet his greatest achievement at the Department was meeting Nicolette, who at the time worked as a dispatcher. More recently, Jeff proudly watched his son, Ryan, join the Greendale Police Department as a patrol officer, carrying on his service legacy.

After retirement, Jeff was free to spend more time pursuing his other interests—hunting, fishing, trapping, golf, and spending time with family and friends in Winter, Wisconsin. Jeff’s skills as a trapper brought numerous awards for his meticulous handling of his animals, and his skill as a nuisance trapper introduced him to new friends, locally and in Winter. Jeff also was able to travel with Nicolette, Kelly, and other family members to popular destinations, as well as with his brothers and other good friends fine-tuning his hunting and fishing skills.

Jeff was the proverbial good guy, always willing to help a friend, lend an ear, or offer words of advice. He treated everyone with dignity and respect. In death, Jeff reminds us that life is short, with unexpected curves and turns, and everyday should be enjoyed and lived to the fullest.

Visitation from 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM, followed by a service at 11:00 AM on Thursday, February 8, 2024 at Krause Funeral Home, 12401 West National Avenue, New Berlin, Wisconsin.

Please consider donations in Jeff’s memory to the American Cancer Society, the Village of Greendale K-9 Unit, or the Autism Society of Southeast Wisconsin.

Krause Funeral Home New Berlin

12401 West National Avenue

New Berlin, WI 53151

Map

Thursday 2/8, 10:00 am - 11:00 am

Krause Funeral Home New Berlin

12401 West National Avenue

New Berlin, WI 53151

Map

Thursday 2/8, 11:00 am

Please consider donations in Jeff’s memory to the American Cancer Society, the Village of Greendale K-9 Unit, or the Autism Society of Southeast Wisconsin.

Jeffrey Zainer, 60, of Muskego, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, January 24, 2024. Loving husband of Nicolette (nee Kotrodimos), cherished father of Kelly and Ryan (Chloe), and grandfather of Rowan Jeffrey. Jeff is also survived by brothers Gary Zainer (Susan) and Gregory Zainer (Linda), and sister Jennifer Opichka (Steve); sisters-in-law Evelyn RippContinue Reading

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In memory of Jeffrey “Jeff” J. Zainer, Trina Meyer lit a candle

Our sincere condolence for the passing of Jeff. He was taken way to soon but he is in a better place now. I worked with Jeff for over 25 years and we also became good friends. He will always be remembered in my heart as a great person and Law Enforcement Officer who worked his way up the ladder to Captain. He was always kind hearted and would drop what he was doing to help out. He will be missed! Randy and Judy

Our prayers and thoughts are with you Greg and Gary and entire family. Joe Choroszy

Sorry I could not make it to the memorial. Great picture montage, was nice to see all the family photos and the great life Jeff lived. The family was blessed to have him for 60 years. Our condolences to Nicolet and the rest of the Zainer family.

I was saddened to hear the news about Jeff. I attended school with him, grade school thru high school. We played football together at West Allis Central. My prayers are with the family. May Jeff’s memory be eternal

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Sorry for your loss of your beloved Husband, I went to West Allis Central (class of 1981 )with him .He was very funny and kind.

My family and I are so sorry for your loss.

Matt and I send our condolences and prayers to Jeff's family. Jeff was a true friend to our family. He lent me his car for ten weeks when my Jeep was in the body shop and offered to help me live trap a coyote with mange at my friend's house. This was after he knew about his cancer diagnosis. Jeff thought about everyone else before himself....

Jeff and I went to school together...I mean all of our schooling from Kindergarten through High School. We always got on well. He was one of those icons of our school years. He was always part of the pack. He always took charge of our intramural basketball names from Helm's Hostages to the Teenage Cornfield. Who knows where they came from. His name puts a smile on my face. My thoughts are with his family. We were all lucky to know him.

Our prayers and thoughts go out to the family and friends 🙏

I was blessed to grow up with Jeff in West Allis. We played football together at WAC and had some good times with fishing poles in our hands. I am saddened to hear of his passing -- way too soon. Cancer sucks -- I know too well. I will always remember Jeff as a super-nice person. Kind & friendly to everyone. Sending his Family prayers for peace and strength at this difficult time. Eternal rest grant unto him oh Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace.

Gary, Greg, and family, so sorry to hear of your brother’s passing! Please accept my sympathy. So hard when those younger than us depart before us!!

Jeff was gentleman, a friendly face when the chips were down, a family man, a great Officer of the Law and a friend. My condolences to his wife, children, extended family and the GPD where he left his mark.

"Z" you will always be on the Chippewa Flowage with us. Minnow Dip

My sincere condolences to the entire Zainer family. May good memories of Jeff sustain you in the days ahead. Sometimes life just isn't fair.

You will forever be loved and missed Uncle Jeff!

In memory of Jeffrey “Jeff” J. Zainer, The Graf Family lit a candle

I offer my deepest sympathies for your loss. I pray for you and that God’s peace will fill your heart and ease your pain.

Nicolette, we were so shocked to hear of your loss, our sincerest condolences. He was a beautiful soul.

My deepest and sincere condolences to you and your family. I had the honor of working with Jeff for many years. Such an amazing person who will be deeply missed.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Our hearts are broken and our thoughts are with you.

Dear Nic, I am so sorry for your loss. I think I know how much you love Jeff and the kind of person you are. My deepest regrets. RIP brother, hugs. Love Jeff G

R.I P. You are definitely gone too soon.

I remember Jeff as that guy who loved in actions and truth, rather than spoken words. He was a kind person and a good human being, and he will be missed. (1John3:18) my prayers are going up to the Heavenly Father’s throne of grace and mercy for comfort and peace to all who loved Jeff. In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 🙏

RIP!! Jeff❤️❤️❤️❤️

For Jeff to light his way to eternal happiness and for Nick to give her a light towards understanding, acceptance and calm. May Jesus guide Jeff home.

I can't even begin to express how shocked I am at this news. Kay and I send our condolences and offer to you to work at anything you may need at this time. You and Jeff always meant so much to me as a couple to model myself after. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Kay and Les Vertz

My condolences Nick. I remember playing Softball against your husband. He was a very nice guy a.nd always a good time. Take care and Prayers to you. Mort. 👮‍♂️🙏🏻

Our deepest condolences. It was an honor to have been able to spend time, laughs and gleam knowledge with/from Jeff. A truly wonderful man who has left a large impact in our small town.

Nicolette please accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of your husband. I pray that you will get through this difficult time by recalling fine memories of your time together. Sincerely, Gary Paluszcyk/insp/ret

Nicolette, I am sorry for your loss. You and your family are in Christine and mine thoughts and prayers. Jeff is now with St Michael and his angles, once again protecting and looking after those in need. Shawn and Christine Friedbacher

Mr. Z, I will miss thee.

My Deepest Sympathy to Nicolette and the Entire Zainer Family. I worked with Jeff for many years. Jeff was a great Police Officer, Supervisor, most of all my Friend. We would get together for lunch occasionally just to catch up. He loved Fishing, Hunting and Trapping. Most of all loved his Family. God Bless you all. Jeff will now be your Guardian Angel watching over you all.

In memory of Jeffrey “Jeff” J. Zainer, Jake Utech lit a candle

In memory of Jeffrey “Jeff” J. Zainer, Robert Utech lit a candle

To the entire Zainer family. May you find God's peace and comfort at this most difficult time.

Jeff was an incredible man. Everything he did made the world a better place. I am proud to have known and worked with him. I considered Jeff a mentor and friend. He will be missed!!!!