Manton "Matt" Wallace Zernicke, age 85 of Pulaski, passed away on Monday, May 30, 2022. Born in Shawano, on April 11, 1937, he is the son of the late Elmer and Ella (Fischer) Zernicke. Matt graduated from Bonduel High School, before enlisting in the United States National Guard. On November 28, 1957, Matt was united in marriage to Arlene Strzelecki in Pulaski, where the couple made their home. Matt and Arlene are members of Zion United Methodist Church in Bonduel. Matt worked simultaneously as a long shoreman for Leicht's, as a bus driver for the Pulaski School District and as a pig farmer.  At age 72, Matt finally decided it was time to retire.  He relished all the time he spent with his grandkids, singing polka songs, dancing, playing, taking them roller-skating, and camping. Matt enjoyed meeting new people and could stike up a conversation with anyone.  He was the type of man who wore his heart on his sleeve and would help anyone. Those who knew him, knew he was ALWAYS the person to call if you needed assistance with anything. He was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather and will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Matt is survived by his wife, Arlene; their children, Robin (Duane) Techmeier, Steven (fiancé, Wendy Kroll) Zernicke, Colleen (Ron) Schubert; their grandchildren, Courtney, Jason, Kay, Gavin, Alexis, Brianna, Tyler, Baley, Griffyn, Landyn, and Chase; along with numerous great-grandchildren, other relatives, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his son, Jeffrey Zernicke, his parents, and his siblings, LaVerne Zernicke, Howard Zernicke, and Irene Westphal.

Graveside services will be held at 5:00pm on Saturday, June 4, 2022, at Zion United Methodist Cemetery. Military honors will follow. Visitation will be held at Swedberg Wendt Funeral Home in Bonduel on Saturday from 2:30pm until the procession leaves for the cemetery.