Benjamin "Ben" Zoellner

Ben Zoellner, age 83, of Winter Haven, Florida formerly of Park Hils, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, November 3, 2025, at AdventHealth Heart of Florida in Davenport, Florida. Ben was born on Sunday, October 11, 1942, in Cape Girardeau, Missouri to the late Benjamin Franklin and Virgie Mae (Crites) Zoellner, Sr.

In addition to his parents, Ben was preceded in death by his loving wife Kathrine Emmily (Qualls) Zoellner and sister-in-law, Nancy Pratt-Zoellner.

Ben was a proud graduate of Flat River High School, class of 1961. He went on to pursue his passion for education, earning a Master’s Degree from Southeast Missouri University after attending Mineral Area College and the University of Missouri. For 30 years, Ben dedicated his life to teaching, shaping young minds at Sunrise Elementary in Desoto, West County R-IV Schools, and Senn-Thomas Middle School in Herculaneum, Missouri. After retiring from public education, he transitioned to a new career by obtaining his insurance license and selling life insurance for Horace Mann Insurance Company in Springfield.

 Ben cherished the role of being a grandfather. When his beloved granddaughter Jane was born, he embraced the joys of grandparenthood and devoted himself to babysitting her alongside his wife until she was ready for preschool. An avid traveler, Ben enjoyed exploring new places with his wife, especially their cherished trips to Branson, where laughter and love filled their days. He was a dedicated member of the New Horizon United Methodist Church in Haines City, Florida, and he held memberships with the Missouri National Education Association, Elvins Ionic Masonic Lodge in Desloge and the Eastern Star.

 Ben is survived by his daughters, Kathrine “Katie” Orr and husband Jay and Stephanie Zoellner; granddaughter, Jane Orr; sister, Susan Zoellner-Smith and husband Van; brother, Thomas Zoellner; nieces, Cindy Zoellner and fiancé Mike and Nicole Smith; nephew, Billy Smith and wife Jennifer; great-niece, Jayden Smith; great-nephew, Zane Smith along with other friends and family. His kind spirit, warm laughter, and gentle heart will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Graveside service will be held 11:00 AM on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at Parkview Cemetery in Farmington.