The Johnny Z Healthy Minds Funds
The Johnny Z Healthy Minds Fund has been created in memory of John Mark Ziegler to help others with trauma/grief counselling, suicide prevention and mental health support – including laughter.
Donations to this Endowed Fund grows over time and will benefit those in need for many years to come.
Donations to this Endowed Fund grows over time and will benefit those in need for many years to come.
About Johnny Ziegler
The family and friends of John Ziegler are heartbroken that he has passed. John was a remarkable individual. “Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Be Kind”. Robin Williams
John Mark Ziegler worked all his life to bring laughter, fun and a sense of belonging to all those he knew. He loved people and his gift was bringing laughter to almost any situation. From working as an usher at various movie theatres to selling men’s fashions to selling furniture, John embraced each position with fun, laughter and his very persuasive personality. You likely bought more than you needed just to keep smiling and laughing with him. His heart was as beautiful as his smile. His pride and joy were his family and his grandchildren. John and Donna made a life together that was built around their family, love, faith and fun.
Sports played a big part in John’s life and he coached his kids and many others through soccer, baseball, wrestling, basketball, squash and football.
John had a way of making you feel special. He brought fun to everything he did. People would often say, “I need a John visit” when they were having a rough day. He thrived on making you laugh.
The impact of isolation during COVID took a huge toll on John’s ability to display his gregarious personality and to connect with clients and friends in his usual manner. As an extravert and people person, the implications of isolation were too much for John and he lost his path to exercise his magic – laughter – so he masked his feelings behind his smile. Without warning, at age 56 John ended his life. He left behind so many family, friends and community members who loved him.
The family started the Johnny Z Healthy Minds Legacy Fund to remember this beautiful soul and to hopefully help others. Resources raised go towards finding ways to prevent and reduce the impact of suicide on others, to help with specialized grief support therapy, and to bring healing and laughter to community in various ways.
“If you’re that depressed, reach out to someone. And remember, suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.” Robin Williams
