Albert M. (Mel) Ziegler, 79, of East Windsor CT, beloved husband of the late Eleanor L Ziegler (Nee Harris) passed away suddenly on April 22, 2022. Al was born in Hartford, CT and grew up in West Hartford. He attended Hall High School where he was part of the wrestling and football teams. Through a friend, he was introduced to the love of his life, Ellie, whom he married in 1961. Ironically, she was a cheerleader for his rival team's squad. Al & Ellie eventually settled in East Windsor, CT, where they raised their 3 children. Al was a devoted and loving husband and father. His priority was first and always his family. He served as a scout leader for his son's troops (182 & 395), coached sports, sponsored school events and was in attendance at all his children's activities. Once his family had grown, he and Ellie joined the Enfield Minutemen and traveled the country reenacting historical events of the country that he served and so greatly loved. He was also a member of the Rockville Fish & Game Club and the Knights of Columbus. Al, also affectionally known as “Pops”, was known for his kindness and incredible sense of humor. He could also be described as a “Walking Encyclopedia of History”. He loved to share this knowledge with anyone who was interested. Most recently he enjoyed spending time with his friends at the East Windsor Senior Center, where he was a member of the “Recycled Teenagers” Wii Bowling team. Al is survived by his brother, Dick & Sally Ziegler of Cheshire, CT, and beloved Cousin aka “My Other Brother”, Ron Drouin of Biddeford, ME. His cherished children; Bree & Shawn Smith of Biddeford ME, Al & Becky Ziegler of Ashford, CT and Lisa Graziano of Ellington, CT. Five Grandchildren; Rachel Ziegler, Zack Ziegler, Nicholas Costas, Aubrie Costas & Fiancé Ben Saperstein, Vinnie Graziano & Fiancée Melanie Sierra, and Great Granddaughter, Hannah Ziegler. Relatives and friends may join the family from 5 to 7 pm on Tuesday, April 26th, at Leete-Stevens Enfield Chapels, 61 South rd., Enfield, CT. A Graveside Service will be held at 11 am on Wed. April 27th, at Melrose Cemetery, 198 Melrose rd., Broad Brook, CT.(Please meet at the cemetery) Donations can be made in Al’s name to the Wounded Warriors Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, KS, 6665-851. For online condolences please visit leetestevens.com