Velma Jean Zimmerman

Zimmerman, Velma J., 92, of Hot Springs, after a long battle with dementia, passed through the gates of heaven in hand with her grandson Ryan. She was born on December 6, 1923, in Wichita, Kansas, to the late Charles and Margaret Koch. Velma retired after 20 years of nursing from St. Joseph Hospital in Wichita, Kansas. In 2002, she relocated to Hot Springs to be near family. She never met a stranger and was a gentle caregiver to everyone! After retiring, Velma volunteered for the American Red Cross, Victory in the Valley (cancer support) in Wichita, and the cancer center in Hot Springs. Velma loved gardening, traveling, and art. Her first and foremost love was her family! She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend. Proceeded in death by her parents; two brothers, Robert and Charles Koch; and her beloved grandson, Ryan Carver. Velma is survived by her son Marcus (Midge) Zimmerman; daughters, Nancy (Ken) Nelson and Donna (Read) Oakleaf; grandchildren, Ken (Donna) Kirt, Teresa (Randy) Zimmerman, Rhonda (Louie) Cruz, Christina Abney Weber, Tim (Amy) Abney, Steven, Michael, and Kim Oakleaf; fifteen great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren. The family would like to thank the staff of Lake Hamilton Health & Rehab for their loving care for the past 5 years. Also the past and present friends and family who loved and cared for Velma. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Velma’s name to: Victory in the Valley, 3755 E. Douglas, Wichita, KS. 67215 or The Caring Place, 101 Quapaw Ave, Hot Springs, AR. 71901. Funeral Services will be held October 1, 2016 at 1:00 PM with visitation 1 hour prior, both at Resthaven Mortuary in Wichita, Kansas.