Alan Zetler Obituary

Dr. Alan G. Zetler passed on July 2, 2025. He was born to George and Hazel Zetler in February 1930. Reared in rural Pennsylvania, Alan excelled in woodworking, music, drama, and was an all-around 'freckle-faced red head' good citizen. Alan worked in the Zetler Apiary and learned to play the guitar and piano by ear from his mother. Alan attended California State Teachers College and had a brief tenure as a teacher in Pleasantville, PA. After Armistice, he served for two years as an engineer building bridges in Korea. Upon his return, he pursued a Master's degree from the University of Northern Colorado, where he met and married his wife, Dorothea in 1955.

Alan loved the outdoors, so moved to Harrison, Montana where he taught math, industrial arts, and physical education. While there, the family grew, adding Tracie Lynn, Peggy Jo and Mark Alan. The family then ventured to Bozeman where they built their first home, and Alan served as the Assistant Junior High Principal. Kimberly Dawn arrived, completing their family of six. Alan later attended Montana State University, where he earned his doctorate in School Administration.

In 1970, he accepted a position as the assistant professor of education at Western Montana College in Dillon. Alan also served as Director of Student Teaching, Director of Teacher Placement, and Dean of Education. He was a vital part of a think tank that contributed to the adoption of the new Montana constitution in education in 1972, and co-penned "The Single Best Thing, Mentoring Beginning Teachers". Alan liked to dress dapper, demonstrating his respect for his position. He crafted a unique home on a beautiful plot of land in Dillon. Upon his retirement in 1986, he became the head of school accreditation and worked with the Montana State Board of Education for the next 11 years.

Not slowing a bit, he was an active member of the Retired Teachers Association and Kiwanis, as well as energetic supporter of Bulldog sports, community arts, and his church. Alan traveled extensively and continued to work on his many projects. Alan is the true example of giving back, teaching others, and creating things that last. He remained deeply involved until the end, still doing everything he loved: hiking, gardening, woodworking, and attending community events.

Because Alan lived nearly a century, he is preceded in death by his wife, Dorothea; daughter, Tracie; his brothers Phil and Bud, as well as so many others whom he cared for deeply. He was a treasure to his four children, seven grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren as well as to the community at large.

Graveside memorial services will be held at Mountain View Cemetery on Thursday, July 24, at 12 PM. Following the service, there will be a reception in the Lewis and Clark Room at UMW, where everyone can celebrate and honor Alan's legacy. Donations in his name may be sent to the Dr. Alan Zetler Bulldog Athletic Scholarship Fund.