William Zibell 1931-2026
William (Bill) Herman Zibell, 94, of Holton, passed away peacefully Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Homestead Senior Living of Holton.
Bill was born to Theodore Walter Zibell and Nona Hilda (Dienst) Zibell on Nov. 19, 1931, in Holton. He graduated from Holton High School in 1949.
Bill farmed with his father and uncle until entering the Air Force on Dec. 5, 1951. During his military service, he completed basic training in San Antonio, Texas, then spent 18 months at the radar site in Port Austin, Mich. From there, he traveled aboard the USS Mann to Japan before flying on to Korea, where he hauled supplies to the 38th Parallel for one year. He later returned to the United States aboard the USS O’Hara and was stationed in Del Rio, Texas, until his discharge on Dec. 5, 1955. While serving in the Air Force, Bill wrote letters to Phyllis Tudor, the younger sister of his best friend, Ed Tudor.
Bill married Phyllis Adair Tudor on Oct. 12, 1956, at the First Presbyterian Church in Holton. They celebrated more than 68 years of marriage.
A lifelong farmer and stockman, Bill was known for his strong work ethic and steady dedication to the family’s four-generation farming operation. He and his son, Gary, farmed side by side for 47 years. Bill remained active on the farm well into his later years, raking hay for the final time at age 93. Among his favorite memories was harvesting brome seed in 2013 with his son and grandson, when all three ran combines together for the last time.
Bill was a lifelong member of Evangel Church.
He also belonged to Holton VFW Post 1367, American Legion Post 44 for 50 years, and the Jackson County Livestock Association, where he was named Stockman of the Year.
Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis; his daughter, Carrie Hildenbrand; his parents; and his sister, Doris Jean Bradley.
Survivors include his faithful companion, Brooster, who brought him great comfort after the loss of his wife, daughter and friends, and during his time in assisted living. He is also survived by his son, Gary Zibell (Becky), of Holton; a son-in-law, Greg Hildenbrand, of Lawrence; four grandchildren, Kylie Boyd (Chris), Kurt Zibell (Shelby), Grace Demmon (Rick) and Reid Hildenbrand; and five great-grandchildren, Madyn, Jayton, Addison, Zoey and Lily.
Leaving the farm was a difficult transition for Bill, but the staff at Homestead welcomed him with care and compassion, helping him feel a true sense of belonging. During his time there, he was blessed by a steady stream of faithful visitors whose presence brought comfort and light to a difficult season.
Bill will lie in state from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. beginning Wednesday, July 22 until Friday, July 24.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. The family will greet friends for one hour before the service. Burial with full military honors will follow at Holton Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Holton VFW Post 1367 and sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com
(PAID OBITUARY)
