Who Were the Zerrs?
The elderly couple’s son, 57-year-old Andy Zerr, told reporters, that others envied the love in this couple’s marriage. He said, “Everybody wanted to be like them. Everybody wanted to be with them.”
The Zerr’s granddaughter, Ashley Kozlowski, added to the picture of this loving couple’s marriage. He’d rather stay with her than save his own life…You wanted your marriage to be like theirs. Always there for each other,” she said.
Apparently, they were considered to be a “pillar of the community.” Andy Zerr said, “My mom and dad were the salt of the earth. They will be dearly missed.”
Discussing how the couple became trapped, Andy continued on, “My father said. “I’m not leaving my wife,” and he stayed with her until the very end.”
But their love for one another wasn’t the only love that had a lasting impact on the community.
According to Andy, the Zerr’s were rooted in their church and the community, sharing the love of God with others.
“They were our rocks,” Andy told reporters. “They were our foundation. They were our wisdom.”
The New Melle Fire Protection District posted about the tragic event and the husband told dispatchers, “I’m not leaving my wife.”
The community was understandably moved.
One Facebook user posted, “Prayers for the frst responders and the families of the victims. I can’t imagine how much it hurts when you try your best but get to those trapped. I do know it hits them hard. Thanks to all involved.”
Another user said, “Heartbreaking day for New Melle. What an incredible human, I pray they found comfort in each other in those final moments. Thank you first responders for all that you do. I know this hits hard.”
Kenneth’s sister posted about her brother’s love for his wife, saying, “The victim was my brother who just turned 84 this week. Thank you to the first responders for your efforts. Ken was very devoted to his wife. It is a tragic loss.”
