Arthur William Zschau

Arthur William Zschau
March 24, 1947 – June 22, 2025

There is no way for an obituary to do justice a person as warm and friendly as Art Zschau.

Arthur William Zschau, known to everyone as Art, was born on a Monday in the small town of Tomahawk, Wisconsin. He grew up with his older sister, Emmy Lou, in a house connected to their father’s Johnson motor repair shop, which eventually transformed into a full-fledged sporting goods store for fishermen and hunters alike. It was the kind of place where customers came for tackle but stayed for stories.

Art spent his early years outdoors, hunting, fishing, and becoming an expert boat driver for Tomahawk’s Kwahamot Water Ski Shows. He could water ski, but claimed he was better behind the wheel, or at least that was his story. In his early teens, he even considered becoming a Catholic priest, but on his father's advice, he decided to wait until he was 18. Luckily for his future wife and kids, in those few years, he discovered girls and beer. And that was that.

Art served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, and was deployed to Thailand. His service led him to Merced, California, where he met the love of his life, Pamela Johnston. They married there on September 28, 1974, and spent the next five decades building a life rooted in love, laughter, and community. I doubt there was a more perfect match.

They started in Merced, moved to Hanford, and eventually settled in Visalia, California, where they bought a home and raised their two sons. With a passion for gardening, Art turned the backyard into a sanctuary filled with blooming flowers, good wine, and stories, often told with a Packers game on in the background. As the boys grew older and began hosting their own friends, Art and Pam welcomed everyone with open arms. Each person instantly felt at home and embraced Art and Pam as their own family.

Art spent 20 years working at Bank of the Sierra, where he was respected and beloved by coworkers and clients alike before retiring as an area manager. He left behind not just a career, but a legacy of friendship, leadership, and kindness.

He was an active and dedicated member of the Kiwanis Club of Exeter and served on the board of the Sequoia Parks Conservancy for over 15 years. His devotion to his community was unwavering.

Art never sought the spotlight but somehow lit up every room just by being himself. He had a signature grin, a sharp wit, and a way of making you feel like you had known him for years.

Art was preceded in death by his parents, William Arthur Zschau and Lillian Alexine Zschau. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Pamela Sue Zschau; his son William Arthur Zschau II and wife Amanda, and their daughters Madeleine and Jacqueline; his son Scott Everett Zschau and wife Korina, and their children Cooper, Griffen, Cooper Randall Zimmerman, and Addison Zimmerman. He is also survived by his sister Emmy Lou Grigg and her husband Chuck; their daughter Tracy Bartz (and her children Tanner, Karson, and Addison); and their son Charlie Grigg and wife Melanie (and their children Zach and Shelby).

He was “Dad and Pops” to his sons, “Papa” to his grandkids, “Art” to his friends, and “Artie” to Pam. He will be remembered for his stories, his generosity, his laughter, and above all, his heart.

To honor Art, please consider making a Tribute Donation to the Sequoia Park Conservancy or Kiwanis Club of Exeter.

Visitation for Art will take place on Wednesday, July 2nd at Smith Family Chapel, 5:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M. A Graveside service with military honors will be held on Thursday, July 3rd at 10:00 A.M. at the Exeter District Cemetery. 

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