"I remember the good old days of the Shuffle Inn and the support Peter provided to musician's in Madison and beyond. What a place! The Shuffle ran music 7 nights week to help support the starving musicians that would also go there on their nights off. He provided the best dressing room ever! I have lived in Madison all my life and still go to the Laurel Tavern, the best Madison neighborhood bar. Thank you Peter, you will not be forgotten!"
In loving memory of
Peter C. Zilley
February 26, 1942 - November 21, 2011
Madison - Peter C. Zilley, age 69, died on Monday, November 21, 2011 at UW Hospital in Madison. He was born on February 26, 1942 to William and Mabel (Casey) Zilley. Peter spent his younger years in Beloit as well as Madison. He was united in marriage to Dianne Handel on May 31, 1974. Peter was a proud owner of many bars and restaurants, namely The Shuffle Inn and Laurel Tavern in Madison. He had a strong community presence and a love for Madison and its people. He also loved cars, enjoyed travelling to Las Vegas, and making family and friends happy. Peter is survived by his wife, Dianne; their son, Nathan; and many loving cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Steve. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, November 28, 2011 at CAPITOL LAKES HEALTH CENTER in the GRAND HALL, 333 W. Main Street, Madison. A visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Free parking is available in the ramp across from the main gate of Capitol Lakes, with a validated parking pass. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to American Diabetes Association, Madison WI Office, South Towne Office Park, Building 4, 6400 Gisholt Drive, Suite 213, Monona, WI 53713.
Tributes
"Like many others, I remember the basement of the Shuffle. I also remember the wonderful family times we had at Peter's home. He was always so gentle and kind to me and I remember him with such fondness. When I host, I try to be as gracious and welcoming as Peter always was. "
"We have so many wonderful memories and friendships from our working at the Laurel. Peter always treated us as if we were family. I will always remember his kindness and caring manner. Our condolences to Diane and Nate."
"My first memory of Pete was at the old Shuffle on Park St. I asked if I could use his Cadillac, he said no, I said, why not, I paid for part of it. He laughed. Years later I would have coffee at the Laurel and sure enough, there was Pete still doling out good cheer and witty sayings. My condolences to his wife and son."
"Peter was a friend that I could always count on to lend and ear when the going got tough with his unwavering positive attitude throughout his courageous battle with his illiness. I will never forget all the times we laughed and laughed while on his daily stops to visit all of his employees and also the many stories and laughs we shared in the office in the basement of the Shuffel Inn. Peter was a very special friend to all who knew him and he will be greatly missed by all. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God rest your soul Peter. Your friend always, Bob Hassett "
"My favorite memory of Peter was sitting in the basement of the Shuffle Inn. He was busy running his businesses, booking bands, hiring bartenders, putting together deals.......but he always made time to talk to his friends. He was a thoughtful listener, he cared about the people who worked for him. He was never judgmental, but instead would let you decide the right path. He was a good friend and mentor. Many of us remain good friends to this day because of the relationships forged in that basement office. Thanks, Peter, for everything!!"