Book of Memories for David R. Zitlow

Story shared: Best teacher ever

Thu, 01 Aug 2013 05:20:40 EDT

I attended Whitefish Bay High School in the 80's. Mr. Zitlow's social studies class was an oasis of expression and intellectual freedom. You never felt judged in his class. He challenged his students and had an amazing sense of humor and humanity. "Who are you? NO...WHO ARE YOU?" The answers around the classroom were revealing. I lost touch with him shortly after high school, but was able to re-connect some 15 years later thanks to the miracle of the internet. I really don't recall many experiences in high school, but I do have vivid memories of Mr. Zitlow and his lectures. His stories about where the highway patrol set-up speed traps on the way "up nort" and his extreme Republican views come to mind right away. I think earlier classes were able to hang out with him more in the off hours thanks to the lower drinking age back then. We had regular email exchanges and I think he even tracked down my home phone number a left a cryptic voice message (something about being in the CIA). Classic Zitlow. The last exchange we had was in September 2012. He was passing around a picture of a guy wearing a shirt that read, "I'll take a mormon over a moron." That was the last I heard from him and it's a fitting conclusion. David, you are a real inspiration to me and many others my friend. The world is a better place for having had you. I'm sad you're no longer here to brighten our world. God bless you and your family. Steve Rynecki Class of '86

Condolence From Jim P

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EDT

A most memorable and influential teacher! Blaze one up in his honor!

Condolence From Michael Koerner

Sun, 07 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EDT

David was always an excellent teacher and certainly a good friend, I will miss him. God Bless David

Condolence From Gail and Tim Kohl

Sun, 07 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Dave was the smartest and sweetest brother. He loved teasing me and I loved hearing him call me "Little Sister." We talked about politics..which we agreed on, history, the beautiful northwoods and our childhood memories. He was always kind to me. Never ever a harsh word to me. I loved him more than anyone can know...and will miss his laughter, wisdom, and wit. Rest in peace, Brother.

Condolence From Christine Ott

Sun, 07 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EDT

I'll always remember Uncle Dave as kind-hearted and strong in his long fight to defy the medical obstacles he constantly faced. Love you! Christine

Condolence From Oran W. Palmer

Fri, 05 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EDT

My deepest sympathy to David's family and friends. I remember fondly, the visit with David and his lovely wife, some 5 years ago at their home in Michigan. And finally, I consider David to have the memory of a long-standing deep friendship with David.

Condolence From Fenris and Deborah McCain

Fri, 05 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EDT

I will always remember David, as my high school teacher (Deborah's) and how interesting and entertaining his lectures were. When he and Alicija made the trip to California for my mother's memorial, our family was deeply touched. David will be missed.

Condolence From Heather Nye Smith

Mon, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 LMT

Thank you Mr. Zitlow. You were truely the best teacher any student could ever have had,. As my kids went through their high school years, my only wish is that they would have had a teacher just like you. To push and push them to be the best that they could be, You did that for me from 1978 till June 1981. Your influence on my life back then is still with me today 31 years after graduating from WFB HS. You were truely a gift to all the knew you and learned from you.

Photo shared: 78793f21-51ae-4f00-9fa1-471d3047252f_0

Mon, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 LMT