Allan D. Zins

Al was a great brother-in-law. He was especially close to my late wife, Peggy. They would refer to themselves as the “outlaws.” They both had to deal with the fairly crazy Heineman clan. Not always the easiest thing to do. That said, I have fond memories of summer weekends staying at their house on Lake Monona as our son, Eric, was growing up. He was always welcoming. I have fond memories of swimming and fishing off the pier with Eric when he was little. In later years, he would welcome Eric and Kathryn and their two boys for holidays and visits. I loved it when he would drive the boat and let us ski off the back. Al loved big holiday get togethers either in Monona or in Chicago. He appreciated good home cooking. He loved it when I would make mincemeat pies for him at Christmas. He always seemed to appreciate Christmas Eve usually hosted by Peggy and I. I loved it that he always appreciated our efforts and would make sure that we knew that. He loved to cook and especially smoke ribs, brats, brisket and everything else under the sun. He was always generous with food and drinks and snacks. He would welcome not only relatives but my freinds as well. Being a “consultant” by profession, he was always one to give advice (whether you wanted it or not)! I found it was usually best to agree with Al. Al was extremely intelligent and usually knew what he was talking about. Al loved good movies and that was something we would always do over holidays. He loved cars but not “look at me” cars. I knew I liked my brother-in -law when he let me drive his very fast stick shift Saab 900 which I believe he owned when he married my sister. Al was a staunch democrat and wasn’t afraid to let you know where he stood on politics. Good thing the Heineman clan were on the same page. Al was good for Mary and Mary was good for Al. Together they would host amazing events and family get togethers and reunions. I understand that he did the same for “his” side of the family. There is now a hole in our lives, but given his terrible health challenges in the past year or two he is definitely in a better place. Mary took care of him right to the end and he appreciated her efforts as did I and everyone else who was paying attention. Thanks, Mary! Tom Heineman

I remember meeting Al years ago and thought he was always very interested in others and what they had to say My sympathy to his friends and of course his family

On behalf of the Badger Honor Flight Board and all our volunteers, we extend our deepest condolences to you all, the family of Allan Zins. We are forever thankful for Allan's service to our great country. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Sorry to hear of Al’s passing. Difficult recent years of health issues. We saw you and Al out walking in Monona frequently with you leading and supporting. Al was a fun member of our Monona morning coffee group for years. Always laughing and joking,outgoing style, but full of good ideas. Our sincere sympathy. Jim and Linda Hoelzel

Dear Mary and family, my condolences. Al was a great presence in so many lives. Lucky to have him as a friend for more tha 40 years. RIP Al. Tom Loftus