Gary W. Zimmermann

On Christmas Day, December 25, 2023, Gary Zimmermann, age 72, passed away at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born October 19, 1951, the son of Wilbert and Inez (Wolfe) Zimmermann. He grew up on his family farm in the Town of Easton. On May 12, 1973 he married the girl next door, Karen Block, and they celebrated 50 years of marriage this past spring.

Gary embraced life with a smile and a positive attitude. He was a caretaker of God’s resources that were given to him: the dairy farm, land, crops, woodlands, animals, and waters. He even explored the skies when he became a pilot. He shared his gifts and love for Jesus when he served on mission trips to Mexico and Neah Bay, Washington. He loved to sing and enjoyed many genres of music. He also served his community and church on various boards. His example of love and service was shared with his children, their spouses, and grandchildren. They learned to love music, how to care for animals, appreciate God’s creation, plant trees, build with wood, explore aviation, share their faith in Jesus, and show love to their families and community.

Gary lived with Polycystic Kidney Disease. Karen and their family navigated the medical community over the past 20 years as they dealt with kidney transplant surgeries, hospitalizations, and dialysis. Even in these challenging events, Gary remained an encourager to those around him. He shared his smile and brought joy and laughter to those who cared for him.

Gary’s family is grateful to those who walked with us during this journey. The staff at U.W. Madison Transplant Center, Restoring Hope Transplant House, Aspirus Dialysis/Kidney Care, Dr. Schneider, Dr. Anderson, and the Aspirus staff, Danielle from Interim Health Palliative Care, and Marathon County Transportation. Thank you for your love and care.

Gary is survived by his wife, Karen, and three children, Hannah (Todd) Petersen, West Bend, WI; Joseph (Katie) Zimmermann, Weston; and Sam (Jenn) Zimmermann, Ringle. He loved his grandchildren and was known as Papa to them. He was able to celebrate with family the wedding of his oldest grandson Mason (Emily) Zimmermann this past June. His love lives on in grandchildren, Norah, Marcie, and Clara Petersen, August, Amelia, and Henry Zimmermann, and Mason (Emily), Adelle, Neah, and Garrison Zimmermann. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy (Dick) Mason, Buffalo, MN, and brother, Dale (Cathy) Zimmermann, Wausau. Many others called him uncle, cousin, in-law, friend, or family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Jack Zimmermann, sister, Judy Brendemuehl, and brother-in-law, Roger Brendemuehl.

A memorial service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 30, 2023, at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 6205 Alderson Street, Weston, with Rev. Lance Hoelscher officiating.  Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church.  Private burial will take place at a later date.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.

Memorials may be given to the Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) Foundation, Restoring Hope Transplant House in Middleton, WI, or a ministry of your choice.

Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name. For the LORD is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations. Psalm 100:4-5

Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation
PO Box 871847, Kansas City MO 64187
Web: https://pkdcure.org/

Restoring Hope Transplant House
7457 Terrace Avenue, Middleton WI 53562
Tel: 1-608-831-1726
Web: http://www.restoringhope.org/