Gregg Zonnefeld

Gregg Zonnefeld, 55, of Waupun, peacefully entered his eternal home in the presence of his Savior on November 22, 2025 following a 21 month journey with brain cancer. Gregg was born on March 31, 1970, in Pipestone, Minnesota, to Garry and Delores Zonnefeld.

Gregg graduated from Southwest Minnesota Christian High School (Edgerton, MN) in 1988, where he began to develop his gifts as a statistician and announcer. He continued his education at Dordt College in Sioux Center, IA, earning a degree in secondary education. He later earned his Master’s degree from Marian University in Fond du Lac, WI. During his college years, Gregg married the love of his life, Kristi Van Essen, on August 10, 1990, at Ebenezer Christian Reformed Church in Leota, Minnesota. Their marriage was a testimony to God’s faithfulness, and the two built a life centered on Christ and Christian service.

In 1992, Gregg and Kristi moved to Waupun to teach at Waupun Christian School. Throughout his many years at Central Wisconsin Christian School, Gregg faithfully served as a middle school teacher, high school teacher, high school principal, athletic director, and advancement director. In his advancement role, God used Gregg’s leadership and vision to guide major building projects and fundraising efforts—work that helped shape CWC into the thriving school community it is today.

Gregg’s love for students and athletics extended far beyond the classroom. He coached basketball, soccer, and track, refereed countless games, announced athletic events, and poured his energy into organizing school and community activities. He also joyfully shared God’s Word in churches throughout the Waupun area, and he served with humility on numerous boards and committees. As a member of First Christian Reformed Church in Waupun, WI, Gregg was honored to serve as both deacon and elder.

Outside of his role at school, Gregg’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, father, papa, son, brother, and uncle. He rejoiced that all three of his children met Christian spouses at Dordt University, and he treasured every moment spent together. Gregg and Kristi also deeply cherished the friendships formed in Waupun—friends who became like family and walked closely with them through life’s joys and challenges. He loved traveling, being outdoors, and cheering on his sports teams—proudly embracing his role as a loyal Vikings fan deep in Packer country.

Gregg was a faithful friend and a steady mentor to many. He loved people fiercely and prayed daily for the needs of others. His life reflected a genuine desire to glorify God in all he did.

Gregg will be remembered for the countless students, athletes, colleagues, friends, and community members he influenced. He touched lives through his wisdom, his prayers, and his thoughtful, Christ-centered actions. And for those who knew him as Mr. Z, he leaves two lasting reminders:

“Be safe, be smart, be spiritual.” and “Soli Deo Gloria!” — To God alone be the glory.

Gregg is survived by his wife of 35 years, Kristi Zonnefeld, Waupun, WI; three kids and four grandchildren, Trevor (Lauren) Zonnefeld and their kids Sage and Dawson; Cody (Jeana) Zonnefeld and their children Harlow, Gemma, and a child on the way; Mikayla (Trevor) Jackson; parents, Garry and Delores Zonnefeld; brother, Ryan (Val) Zonnefeld; sister, Carmen (Dan) Huttenga; brother-in-law, Quent (Edy) Van Essen; sister-in-law, Bonnie (Les) Netjes; sister-in-law, Mary (Ver) VanderTop; brother-in-law, Don (Deb) Van Essen; brother-in-law, Lee (June) Van Essen; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by an unborn child due to miscarriage and his parents-in-law, Henry and Betty Van Essen.

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, from 3:00–7:00 PM at Werner Harmsen Funeral Home. Honoring Gregg’s wishes, a private burial for close friends and family will be held at Forest Mound Cemetery in Waupun on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. A celebration of Gregg’s life and God’s faithfulness will also be held on Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at 10:30 AM in the Crusader Centre at CWC School, 301 Fox Lake Rd, Waupun. Doors will open at 10:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial's in Gregg's name directed to Central Wisconsin Christian School.