Francis Zimmer

Francis Charles Zimmer, age 79, of Glen Haven, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 11, 2016, at Orchard Manor Nursing Home with his family by his side. He was born on September 15, 1936, in Lancaster, the son of Lawrence J. and Mildred F. (Dolphin) Zimmer. After his mother Mildred died, Lawrence married Myrl Dolphin (Mildred's sister) and together Lawrence and Myrl raised the children. On February 12, 1958, Francis was united in marriage to Lillian I. Kienzler at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Fennimore. After their marriage, the couple farmed in the Glen Haven area. Francis was a member of St. Mary's Help of Christians Church in Glen Haven, a member of the Knights of Columbus, Catholic Knights, volunteered for 44 years with the Glen Haven Fire Department, and served on the Bloomington School Board for several years.

Survivors include his loving wife of 58 years, Lillian Zimmer; their children: Larry (Marti) Zimmer, Glen Haven; Anna (Joe) Kusilek, Baldwin; Margaret (Robert) Wickenhauser, Cologne, MN; Gerard (Theresa) Zimmer, Glen Haven; Teresa R. Zimmer, Monroe; Amy (Neal) Moore, Lone Rock; Mike Zimmer, Cassville. Francis enjoyed his role of Grandfather to 23 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and two more soon to be born. Francis is further survived by his sisters: Jeanette (John) Sherman, Bloomington; Norma (John) Ward, Greendale; brother-in-law, Jim Deneen, Madison; nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

In addition to his parents, Francis was preceded in death by his second mother, Myrl Zimmer; and a sister, Elizabeth "Betsy" Deneen.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, March 17, 2016, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary's Help of Christians Church in Glen Haven with Father John Meinholz and Father Tom Kelley officiating and Deacon Paul Zenefski assisting. Burial with volunteer fireman's memorial honor guard was in Gockel Cemetery, Glen Haven. Family and friends called on Wednesday, March 16, 2016, from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at St. Mary's Help of Christians Church in Glen Haven where a Knights of Columbus Rosary was prayed at 3:00 p.m. Family and friends also called on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the church. In lieu of plants and flowers, a Francis C. Zimmer Memorial Fund has been established. Martin Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Bloomington is assisting the family.