Obituary of Robert William Zimmerman

Robert (Bob) William Zimmerman, 90, passed away peacefully at his home in Venice, FL on January 4, 2024.

Bob was born on January 25, 1933, in Auburn Heights, Michigan.  He was the oldest son of the late Cecelia (Collins) and Edwin Zimmerman. 

Bob attended St. Frederick Catholic School where he met Bonnie Scholtz, his future wife.  They started dating in high school and were wed on May 29, 1954, in a double wedding ceremony with Bonnie’s twin sister Betty (Charles Wells).

Bob was drafted into the Army on January 5, 1954, and served as a Specialist – NCO until he was honorably discharged on December 16, 1955. 

Upon graduation, Bob was hired by Pontiac Motors and became a Tool Maker where he continued until 1968 when he decided to open his own hardware business and bought a store in Lake Orion, Michigan in 1968.  He ran the store until it sold in 1975.

Bob was also a proud member of the Bloomfield Township Police Department.  Starting out as an Auxiliary Police Officer in 1962 and eventually becoming a full-time dispatcher.  He worked for Bloomfield Township until he retired in 1993.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bonnie and his younger brother Donald.  He is survived by his daughters Katherine McClain (Paul), Linda Kerre (Richard); and his son, Gary Zimmerman (Kirsten); 11 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

In 2014 Bob was lucky enough to enter into a loving relationship with Janet Henry.  Together they enjoyed many dinners, cruises and gatherings with friends and family.

Bob loved his family and never hesitated to spend time or have a meaningful conversation with them.  He always had a smile and a positive attitude.  One of his favorite pastimes was fishing, which he took advantage of whenever time permitted.  He loved to travel to the Upper Peninsula with his brother and father and spend a weekend dropping a line, eating a hearty breakfast, and catching up.  A good time was had by all.

In lieu of flowers please send contributions to: Florida Cancer Specialist Foundation at https:\\fcsf.org\ways-to-help\donate. 

There will be a Celebration of Life for Bob held on Thursday, Feb. 1 from 4-6 pm at Farley Funeral Home in Venice, FL.  A mass will be held on Feb. 2 at 11:30 am at Our Lady of Lourdes in Venice, FL with a graveside immediately following at Sarasota National Cemetery.