Bonnie Zich

Bonnie Zich, 74, of Holcombe, Wisconsin, passed away on October 31, 2026. Born in Ladysmith, Wisconsin, to Eddie and Vonnie (Jones) Strop, she was a woman defined by deep love, generosity, and unwavering hospitality.

Fifty-five years ago, Bonnie married the love of her life, Jim Zich. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and countless memories, sharing a special bond and a deep appreciation for the life they created together.

Bonnie was a devoted mother to Mike and Shelley and a welcoming presence to countless others who viewed her as a second mother. Her door on Lake Holcombe was always open without invitation, offering a welcoming environment to all who stopped.
In retirement, she looked forward to an annual trip to Siesta Key. Those trips became even more special as friends and family came to visit and share in the time together. Yet her happiest moments were often spent at home, enjoying the lake view alongside Jim.
Bonnie shared a special, lifelong bond with her siblings. They remained close throughout the years, and family was always at the heart of her life.

Her greatest legacy remains her grandchildren. Bonnie was their ultimate champion, rarely missing a sporting event, school function, or Scout activity. She particularly enjoyed playing cribbage and dice games with her grandkids, loving when they somehow always managed to beat Grandpa. Her open door and unconditional love leave a lasting imprint on all who knew her.

Bonnie is survived by her husband, Jim Zich; children, Mike (Charity) Zich and Shelley (Andy) Hillesheim, both of Chippewa Falls, WI; grandchildren: Henry and Harrison Hillesheim, and Brendan and Gavan Zich; sisters: Judy Lechleitner of Conrath, WI, and Peggy (Gary) Anderson of San Diego, CA; brother, Jeff (Wendi) Strop of Ladysmith, WI; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death are her parents, Edward and Yvonne Strop; brother, Doug Strop; nephew, Hunter Strop; brother-in-law, Clark Lechleitner; and parents-in-law, Marvin (Bud) and Jane Zich.

Memorial services will be held at 12:00 p.m. (noon) on Friday, November 6 at Central Lutheran Church, 28 E Columbia St, Chippewa Falls with Pastor Aaron Sturgis officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time of service.

Cremation Society of Wisconsin, Altoona is assisting the family. Online condolences may be shared at www.cremationsociety-wi.com.