Jon Mark Zeman was born on April 2, 1951, and passed away on January 11, 2026.
He is survived by his special friend, Elvira; his three daughters, Lori (Steven) Harriss, Kathy (Scott Summers) Zeman, and Cindy (Tim) Brendel—whom he would be the first to admit he did not spend enough time with or hug nearly enough; his five grandchildren, Molly (Josh) Thomas, Truman Northway, and Willow, Thatcher, and Carver Brendel; and many additional family and friends.
Jon led what he described as a perfectly satisfactory life. His zany humor is evident throughout this self-written obituary and was a hallmark of how he approached life. He worked for over forty years at several different places, sticking around because of the people. Outside of work, Jon ran marathons (on purpose), threw legendary yard sales (follow the pink signs), and never missed an opportunity to show up in costume if the occasion—or lack of occasion—called for it. He loved silly games, watching movies, and firmly believed a good hamburger and fries could solve most problems. A devoted fan of local sports, Jon rarely missed a game within a 100-mile radius, always sitting on the visitor side.
In lieu of a memorial service, a free throw contest will be held at a later date. Donations and memorials are not requested; instead, do something small and kind for a friend—or a stranger—which Jon would have appreciated far more.
Gholson Funeral Home of McLeansboro is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.gholsonfuneralhome.com
