Walter Zane Bard

Zane was born July 6th, 1938, to Walter and Marie (Addison) Bard, in Lapeer, Michigan. After graduating from Lapeer High School, he attended Michigan Technological University, then transferred to Northern Michigan University to receive his teaching credentials. He subsequently earned two Master of Education Degrees, one in Versoix, Switzerland. He met Carole Rheault, the love of his life, as a student, and they married on June 13th, 1964, six days after Carole graduated from NMU.

Zane taught for three years at Manistique High School, then immediately following their marriage, he accepted a teaching position with the Department of Defense, teaching high school in the Dependent School System, two years in Catania, Sicily and two years in Frankfurt, Germany. Returning to the U.S, and a year of graduate school at Syracuse University, he was hired by the Marquette School System where he taught mathematics at MSHS until his retirement in 1997.

Zane was a gifted teacher, remembered by many, many students who many said was the best teacher they had.

Zane and Carole loved travel. Their travel adventures included a photo safari in Africa, trips to South America, including the Galapagos Islands and Machu Picchu, Australia, Japan, and many countries in Europe. Trips also took them to many National Parks in the U.S., including many Road Scholar trips with grandchildren. Their favorite destination though was to Rabbit Bay, where they purchased a “camp” in 1976.

Zane was an avid fisherman in his younger years, and a lifelong hunter, which he enjoyed with his father-in-law; “Will”, brother-in-law; George, nephew; Adam, and best buddy; Frank Patterson.

Zane loved animals and the couple adopted numerous cats and dogs over the years. When out walking, Zane always carried doggy treats in his pockets. They fed the wild birds, squirrels, bunnies, and deer that frequented their yard.

Zane was active in First United Methodist Church (now Hope UMC), where he served as liturgist, Children’s Time leader, a Stephen Minister, usher, Fellowship Time host, and greeter.

ane was devoted to his wife, his children and grandchildren. He loved to read and learn, hike, especially with the North Country Trail Hikers, was a member of Northern Center for Lifelong Learning, was active for many years with the Negaunee Rod and Gun Club where he was skilled with a pistol. He also served as a Board Member of Marquette Community Federal Credit Union for many years.

He loved music, especially Country and Western and Opera, and he loved poetry including writing some himself. He tried his hand at wood working and made a beautiful bed from recovered knotty pine from their camp.

Most of all, he was known by his many friends and family as a quiet, patient, and gentle man.

Zane is survived by his wife, Carole; his daughters, Kerri Lynn Bard of Lansing, MI and Stephanie Bard Solis; his grandchildren, Olivia, Grace, and Roman Solis all of Kentwood, MI; sister-in-law, Nancy (Rheault) Pennell and brother-in-law, George (Nancy) Pennell, many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Fred Solis; his sister, Toni; and his parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given to UPAWS, the Local Chapter of the North Country Trail, Marquette Hope UMC or Calumet United Methodist Church.

A celebration of his life will be held in the spring or early summer with the date to be announced later.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.