John Joseph Zimmerman

John Joseph Zimmerman, 88, passed on March 4 at home surrounded by family after a short battle with lung cancer. He was born on October 2, 1933 in Chicago to the late Estelle Theresa Norton and George William Zimmerman. He graduated from Oak Park High School in 1951 and then joined the Army in 1954 as an engineer equipment repairman. He was a postman in Oak Park, IL prior to military service and after discharge he resumed his career in the Postal Service until 1994. John also was a police officer in Hanover Park in the early 1960’s. He married Wilma Mary Hockensmith in 1960 in Chicago and moved to Hanover Park, IL where together they raised six amazing children. Hobbies included landscaping, boating, Ham and CB radio, world travel, and lastly repairing and replacing items after the 19- strong wrecking crew left after frequent visits.

He is survived by his loving wife Wilma, Buddy the Dog, and children: Cheryl and Monte Pocock of Chandler, AZ; John and Debbie Zimmerman of Loxahatchee, FL; Steve and Pam Zimmerman of Barrington, IL; Denise and Russ Dryer of Skull Valley, AZ; Doug and Carmen Zimmerman of Chicago, IL; and the surprise baby Joanie and Jarrod Foote of Mesa, AZ. He was blessed with 19 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren.

He is predeceased by siblings: Lois and Pat Golden, George, Marilyn Keil, Joan, and Robert. He is survived by Ceil (George), Ted Keil, and Jackie (Robert).

Mass will be held 10:00 am, Tuesday, April 5, at St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church 3450 W Ray Rd. Chandler, AZ with lunch following. Then directly after, the burial service will begin promptly at 2pm (please arrive 1:45) at the National Memorial Cemetery 23029 N Cave Creek Rd in Phoenix, AZ.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.LakeshoreMort.com for the Zimmerman family.