Steven Wood Ziegler was born on August 26, 1942, in Springfield, MA, to Elmer and Hilda Ziegler. He was a man of admirable courage and resilience who dedicated his life to the service of others. Steven's journey in this world came to a peaceful close on July 18, 2026.

Steve's dedication led him on a path of public service starting at a young age. He demonstrated his selfless nature early, working as a volunteer firefighter in his hometown of Lincoln, MA at the age of 18. Throughout his high school and early years, he worked as a mechanic and found he was skilled in fixing anything mechanical. After high school, he went to Wentworth Institute for airframe and engine mechanics study. That was a springboard into serving his country in the United States Air Force from March 1964 to February 1968. While he started as a mechanic with the Air Force, he was tasked with tackling dangerous tasks in the Air Force, working in the bomb squad. His time in the Air Force took him to Colorado for Munitions Training first, then on to Italy and the Philippines.

After his time in the Air Force, he started his next phase of life at Northeastern University. His time at Northeastern University is also where he met Susan Williams, leading to their marriage in June 1970.

After college, he began his law enforcement career with the Town of Lincoln before joining the private police force of the Boston and Maine Railroad. With the B&M Railroad, he worked his way up to be the chief of that unit. All the while becoming familiar with railroad lines all over New England. He continued with the B&M Railroad police force up until the end of 1987. His next step was to continue his law enforcement career in Littleton, MA. He spent the next 14 years serving the town of Littleton as a Detective.

While public service and community service were his career, he also showed up in the community in other ways. He was a dedicated father of David and Michael and volunteered as a youth coach and with Boy Scouts. He also played a role with the Congregational church of Littleton. He was a supportive figure to many, guiding young minds and offering a helping hand to those in need. In his leisure time, Steven found solace and joy in riding his Harley and working on his cars, nurturing a lifelong passion for machinery and speed. Steve was also a lifelong member of the Masonic Lodge. His time as a Mason started while in the Air Force in the Philippines and continued with the Soley Lodge in Lincoln, MA. While with Soley Lodge, he became a Master.

Even upon retirement from the active workforce, Steve could not quit the life of public service. After retiring from Littleton PD, Steve and Sue moved from Littleton, MA down to Hereford, AZ to escape these New England winters.

During his time in AZ, Steve found his purpose volunteering with the Sheriff Assist Team (SAT) of the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office. From 2003 up to 2025, he helped build the SAT group to become a key resource for their community. He spent over 10,000 hours volunteering to help keep his new community safe.

Steven was a man who valued family above all else. He was the widowed husband of Susan Ziegler (Williams) and a beloved father to his sons, Michael and David Ziegler. His brother, Jeff Ziegler, will remember him fondly. His parents, Elmer and Hilda Ziegler, and brother, Jon Ziegler, preceded him in their journey to eternity. Steven's most treasured joy was his six grandchildren, whom he leaves behind a legacy of bravery, dedication, and love.

Steven's life was a testament to courage, resilience, and dedicated service. His memory will continue to inspire all who knew him. Friends, family, and others whose lives were touched by Steve are invited to share their memories and upload photos to his memorial page. It is a space to remember and celebrate the remarkable life of Steven Ziegler, a man who truly made a difference.

Services to be announced.

Arrangements under the care of Badger Funeral Home, A Life Celebrations Home, 347 King St., Littleton, MA. 978-486-3709, www.badgerfuneral.com.