To say that former Mayor Frank Zeidler and I had differences of opinion would be a tremendous understatement. He, a proud socialist, and I … well, let’s just say I lean slightly more to the right.

Nevertheless, it is hard to disagree with a man whose love and passion for his own community drove him until his dying day.

Mayor Zeidler did a great many things that helped change this community; namely his often fruitless efforts at early regionalization, his dream of building affordable housing for residents, and making those residents able to protect themselves during the paranoia of the Cold War.

During his 12-year stint as mayor, the city never had to borrow or go into debt to repay loans. He helped to get the freeway system built, and worked to enhance the County Park system, calling it an important civic resource.

While socialism today is commonly linked with communism, Zeidler was far from extreme. Brotherhood, cooperation and working together for the common good of Milwaukee were the main themes of his career.

I was fortunate enough to meet Mayor Zeidler at a number of events in the German-American community that he attended even in recent years, and the man was always pleasant, appreciative and proud of his hometown.

Politics aside, men like that are hard to find, and it’s doubtful our city will ever see a man like Frank Zeidler again.