Lois M Zenz

Lois M. Zenz, age 92, of West Chester, Ohio, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2025. She was the beloved wife of the late Albert Zenz, with whom she shared 68 years of joyful companionship.

Lois was a devoted and loving mother. She is survived by her cherished children: Mary Maier, James (Teri) Zenz, Susan (Joseph) Hoffman, Laura Zenz (Daren Henry), and Michael (Kelley) Zenz. Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren, who held her dear: Jennifer Aster, Cindi Monk, Ryan Maier, Nathan Maier, Michelle (Alex) Godofsky, Melissa Zenz (Andrew Wapiennik), Michael Zenz, Kelsey Hoffman, Angela Hoffman, Eve Henry, Faye Henry, Luke Darling, Nickolas Zenz, and Katherine Zenz; and her great-grandchildren: Quinn, Trey, Austin, David, Brendan, James, Eli, Jack, Connor, and Daniel. She is also survived by her sister, Carolyn Schira of Defiance, Ohio.

Lois was preceded in death by her son, Thomas Zenz; son-in-law, Arthur Maier; her parents, Walter and Otillia (née Walz) Schira; and her siblings, Rita Weis, Marilyn Schira, Jeanne Reed, and Mary Knoop.

Born on July 13, 1932, in Defiance, Ohio, Lois and her family experienced the hardships of the Great Depression, World War II, and the loss of their father when she was just 13 years old. Despite these early challenges, she embraced life with resilience and joy, often speaking fondly of her childhood, high school, and early career years. Her vibrant spirit and humor undoubtedly caught Albert’s attention, and they were married on May 31, 1954.

Lois dedicated herself to being a nurturing wife, mother, and grandmother. After retiring in 1995, she and Albert enjoyed exploring national parks and traveling through Europe with their siblings. She also found joy in swimming at the YMCA, the occasional trip to a casino, and the friendly competition of bowling.

In 1981, after being diagnosed with cancer and given just six months to live, Lois defied the odds. Her remarkable strength and unwavering faith carried her through, blessing her with many more years of life. She had a contagious laugh and a rare gift for finding humor in everyday moments. Ever the optimist, Lois approached life with a “glass half full” perspective.

More than anything, Lois treasured time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, finding her greatest joy in the love of family.

A private Memorial Mass to celebrate Lois’s extraordinary life will be held at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Cincinnati, P.O. Box 633597, Cincinnati, Ohio 45263.