Zachary Zac Wasendorf

Zachary James “Zac” Wasendorf (April 1, 1998 – June 4, 2021) was a devoted servicemember, student, and friend whose life reflected commitment to others. A political science student at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater, Zac balanced his academic pursuits with active leadership and service. He served as a sergeant in the Wisconsin Army National Guard and answered the call to duty overseas, including deployment to Afghanistan. His dedication to fellow service members and to veterans’ causes stayed with him throughout his life.

At UW–Whitewater Zac was known to classmates and fraternity brothers as engaged and determined. He was an active member of Phi Delta Theta, where peers remember him as someone who cared about community and camaraderie. Outside of school and service, Zac showed his generosity in practical ways—most poignantly by being an organ donor, a final act that reflected his wish to help others.

Family, friends, and the university community valued Zac’s sense of humor and his steady presence. The University of Wisconsin–Whitewater honored his memory by lowering its flag, a small sign of the respect many felt for a young man who gave so much of himself. His life touched classmates, fellow soldiers, and neighbors in Whitewater; those who knew him speak of a person who combined quiet strength with a readiness to support others.

Though Zac’s life was far too short, the impact of his service, his friendship, and his generosity endures. He is remembered with gratitude by those he served alongside and by his Warhawk community.