The sudden passing of beloved volleyball coach, referee, and bakery manager Arthur W. Ziebell III on August 4, 2025, has left the Escanaba community in shock.
Art’s unexpected death has shattered the hearts of many who have left a legacy as a kind, inspiring, and dedicated individual who will live on in the memories of those who knew him.
Born on February 21, 1964, in Madison, Wisconsin, Art was the son of Arthur William and Karen Ann Ziebell.
Growing up in a military family, he moved to California at a young age before settling in Escanaba, Michigan, before his freshman year.
Art graduated from Escanaba High School in 1982, where his love for sports and community began to shine.
On November 3, 1984, he married his high school sweetheart, Beverly K. Zawacki, at St. Patrick’s Church in Escanaba.
Together, they built a life filled with love, raising three daughters, Charissa, Jennilee, and Katherine, and adoring their grandchildren.
Art was a true family man.
He first prioritized attending his children’s and grandchildren’s sports events and activities, always cheering them on with excitement.
His warmth and dedication grew beyond his family, touching everyone he met in the Escanaba community.
Art’s Love and Passion for Sports Began From an Early Age
He enjoyed biking, bowling, and participating in car shows, but volleyball held a special place in his heart.
For 12 years, he coached volleyball at Holy Name School and Escanaba Area Public Schools, inspiring countless young athletes with his encouragement and positivity.
Art also dedicated 10 years as a volleyball referee for multiple schools and served as a softball umpire, earning respect for his fairness and calm presence on the court.
Ellen Cooper, a former athlete, shared,
“He’s the reason I gained a passion for volleyball, and he never failed to greet me on my way into church. The sweetest man. Always encouraging and cheering on everyone he knew. Prayers for his family 🤍.”
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His ability to motivate and uplift left a continuing impact on the youth he coached.
Amy Nixon, a coaching colleague, expressed,
“We were incredibly fortunate to have Art as a volleyball official and coaching colleague. His presence on the court went far beyond making calls—he brought fairness, kindness, and a calming spirit that left a lasting impression on our athletes and coaches alike. He will be deeply missed as a valued member of our volleyball community.”
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At the age of 16, he began working at Elmer’s County Market, mopping floors in the bakery department.
His hard work and dedication led him to become the bakery manager, a role he held for many years.
Those who worked alongside him remembered his kindness.
One colleague from the deli department recalled,
“I worked in deli right next to bakery. Art was always kind and nice. He will be missed. Prayers go out to his family.”
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Outside of work and coaching, Art found joy in simple pleasures.
He loved spending time in his garage, tinkering and working on projects.
Side-by-side rides through the Upper Peninsula’s scenic trails were a favorite pastime, offering him moments of adventure and relaxation.
Whether he was at a car show, on the volleyball court, or with his family, Art’s warm smile and genuine spirit made him a beloved figure in Escanaba.
Kris Rabitoy, a friend and colleague, shared a heartfelt memory:
“He was an extraordinary man! I loved him. He was always the scorekeeper for our kids’ sports, and when I got a technical on the bench at a basketball home game, he never let me live it down. He always called me coach, and when I think of our time at Holy Name, I think of him. It was our Holy Name family. He and Bev were loved by all the kids they coached! He is now coaching volleyball in Heaven..”
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A Escanaba Community in Mourning
The news of Art’s passing has brought a flood of grief and condolences from the Escanaba community.
Friends, colleagues, and former athletes have shared stories of his kindness, humor, and support.
His 40-year marriage to Beverly, his devotion to his parents, children, and grandchildren, and his commitment to the community have left an enormous mark.
Art is survived by his wife, Beverly, his parents, Arthur William and Karen Ann Ziebell, his daughters, Charissa, Jennilee, and Katherine, and his cherished grandchildren.
His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched as a coach, referee, coworker, and friend.
The Escanaba community continues to honor Art’s legacy, remembering him as a man who lived with passion, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to those around him.
His absence is sincerely felt, but his spirit will continue to inspire the athletes, families, and friends he leaves behind.
He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Beverly, his parents, children, and grandchildren.
