Rev. Father Christopher J. Zeller Sr., age 52, of Swanton, surrounded by his loving family, passed away Tuesday afternoon, March 1, 2016 at his residence while under care of Heartland Hospice. He was born at Toledo Hospital on December 17, 1963 to Thomas Zeller Sr. and the late Marlene (Meier).
Chris was a 1982 graduate of Delta High School. He then went on to Ashland University where he received a Master of Art Degree and Master’s Degree in Clinical Pastoral Counseling. He was a Veteran having served with the U.S. Army as Military Police from 1982-1988. On June 20, 1986 he was united in marriage to Sandra Yantis who survives.
Chris served over 20 years as a Police Officer with several Police Departments in Northwest Ohio. For over 20 years Father Chris also served in local and secular parish ministries including the Toledo Hospital, Flowers Hospital, Medical College of Ohio and Heartland Hospice. He was a member of the Delaware American Legion and the F.O.P. Along with his wife, they were owners and operators of Midwest Carnival Party Rentals.
Chris was preceded in death by his mother, Marlene Ansted.
Along with his father and wife, Sandie, Chris is survived by his children, Brittany, Chris Jr., Taylor, and Zacharius Zeller; brothers, Thomas (Pam) Zeller Jr., Brian (Irene) Zeller and Daniel Ansted; sister, Michelle Smith and grandchildren, Emma, Liam, Anna, and Logan.
Arrangements are entrusted to Barnes Funeral Chapel, 5825 St. Hwy. 109 in Delta. A memorial celebration and gathering of friends to honor Chris’ life will be held from 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM on Tuesday, March 29, 2016 at the Epic Center, 124 N. Main St., Swanton, Ohio 43558. Interment will be private for the family.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to Chris’ family; care of Sandie Zeller. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website at www.barnesfuneralchapel.com