Zachary Ben Wathern

Zachary Ben Wathern, age 63 a longtime Portage resident passed away Sunday, May 17, 2026. He was born on March 2, 1963 in Martinsville, Indiana to the late Benjamin and Lillian Wathern. Zachary worked as a Heavy Equipment Operator for Yellow Freight. He enjoyed sketch drawing and also enjoyed working with his hands. Zachary’s favorite pastime was making people laugh.

He is survived by one son, Matthew Ashford of Mishawaka, IN; two brothers, Edward ( Kari ) Wathern of WI; Ronald Wathern of WI; one sister, Charmaine (Wayne) Wierzbicki of Portage, IN, nieces and nephews, Amanda, Kenny, Jennifer, Ron, Robert. Eric, Allen, Alexis, Trey, and Shaun.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Donna McAfee and his beloved dog, “Tila”.

Cremation was entrusted to Rees Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Portage. (219) 762-3013.