With deep sorrow we announce the passing of Ivan Willard Zender on November 23, 2024, at the age of 67.

Ivan was a devoted husband to his wife, Donna Parnell Zender, for 45 years, and he found great joy in being a loving father and grandpa to his two children and four grandchildren. His unwavering love and support for his family and community were deeply rooted in his strong faith in Jesus. He was an active member at Calvary Baptist Tabernacle in Kernersville, NC. 

He had a passion for working in the retail and grocery store environment. He loved serving customers in each store he worked in over the years. He loved meeting new people along the way and making them feel welcome. Ivan also loved fishing, golf, and was an avid bowler in his free time. 

Ivan is preceded in death by his parents, Carl B. Zender, Sr., and Lena (Amen) Zender; and two brothers, Carl B. Zender, Jr. and Thomas C. Zender. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Donna (Parnell) Zender; his children, Leah Schomaker and husband, Corey Schomaker, and Joshua Zender and wife, Christy Moore Zender; his grandchildren, Catie Moore, Jordan Zender, Hannah Zender, and Reagan Schomaker; his siblings, Linda Allen, Kevin Zender, James Zender, Mary Gibson, and Julie Pentegraph; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family.

In lieu of flower, the family requests that donations be made in Ivan’s honor, to Trellis Hospice, Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home, 101 Hospice Lane, Winston Salem, NC 27103.

A public celebration of Ivan’s Life will be held at 11:00AM on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at Calvary Baptist Tabernacle church, located at 330 W. Mountain St., Kernersville, NC 27284.

Friends and family may offer online condolences at www.piercejeffersonfh.com