Taylor Craig Girard,31, of Wausau, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly at his home on July 24, 2025.
He was born September 30, 1993, in Wheatland, Wyoming, to Jennifer Zapf and Paul Girard.
Taylor grew up in Guernsey, Wyoming, where he graduated from Guernsey- Sunrise High School in 2012. He then served in the U.S. Army, where he became an ammunition team chief and worked as an avionics, electrical, and armament repairer. While in the military, he was married and blessed with two beautiful daughters. After his military service, he worked as an integration technician and later as a steel fabricator with B&D Fabricators.
From a young age, Taylor was always eager to learn, excelling in math, welding, and art. He found much joy in his hobbies, which included designing and creating intricate chainmail jewelry and trinkets, collecting knives and Pokémon cards, playing video games, and loved making art and reading. Above all, he cherished time with his two daughters, Lumen and Aurora, whether playing at the park, drawing, painting, cooking, or simply spending days together.
Taylor was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Tom Otero, and uncle, Manuel Otero. He is survived by his two daughters, Lumen Girard and Aurora Girard; his mother, Jennifer Zapf (Luke); his father, Paul Girard (Erin); his maternal grandmothers, Kathy Martinez (Ron), Lindi Otero; and his great-grandmother, Carolyn Perea. Paternal grandmother Vicki Butler, grandfather Jeff Girard (Anita).His brothers Cash Zapf, Henry Zapf, and Jonah Girard, and many other loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.
Taylor’s intelligence, loyalty, selflessness, and warmth made him a devoted father and a cherished friend. The void his passing leaves is immeasurable. He was deeply loved, and he will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.
We invite you to join us in honoring the life of Taylor Craig Girard. A graveside memorial service will be held on Friday, August 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Hartville Cemetery, with a reception to follow at the Guernsey VFW. All are welcome to come together and share memories, stories, and celebrate Taylor’s life with family and friends.
A memorial fund has been established for Taylor’s young daughters. If you wish to contribute, your generosity will help ease their journey ahead and continue the legacy of Taylor’s love and devotion.
Contributions can be sent to:
Taylor Girard Memorial Fund
First State Bank
PO Box 879
Guernsey, Wy 82214