Donald G Zimmer

Don Zimmer

August 14, 1942 – June 26, 2025. 

Don Zimmer of La Conner, beloved husband, father, papa, coach, teacher, real estate professional, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 82.  Born with a natural drive and a generous heart, Don wore many hats in his lifetime. He lived life fully and without regret — often saying, “I checked all the boxes.”

Raised in the Yakima Valley, he graduated from Wapato High School in 1960 and went on to play football at Central Washington University, forming lifelong friendships along the way.  Don married Linda (Nelson) and together they settled in Skagit County, building a life rooted in love and shared purpose. Don admired Linda — their bond was one of deep respect and unwavering partnership. He often said she was the best decision he ever made.  As a father to Megan (Reed) and Paige (Zimmer), Don was a steady source of encouragement and positivity, always leading with love, patience, and belief in his girls.  In his role as “Papa,” he found immense joy in watching his five grandchildren grow.  He cherished every moment in the bleachers, watching their confidence take root and character take shape.  He laid the foundation through a lifetime of presence, perspective, and pride — one game, one conversation, one proud moment at a time.  As a teacher and coach in Marysville, and as a realtor in La Conner, he embodied one common thread: building meaningful relationships. Don had a rare gift for connecting with people — listening fully, offering thoughtful guidance, and always making others feel heard and valued.  Don loved his friends deeply, and they loved him right back. His circle included Kathy, his loving partner later in life, handball buddies, neighbors, and countless others he met throughout his life — a wide and varied community drawn to his easy-going nature and genuine optimism.

Don often said he was the lucky one — but the truth is, we were. To be loved, taught, believed in, and endlessly cheered on by him, was a gift we will always treasure.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Betty Zimmer, and his wife, Linda Zimmer.  Don is survived by his daughters, Megan Reed (Rob) and their children, Hudson, Gunner, and Hayden; and Paige Zimmer and her children, Reese and Rory. He is also survived by his partner, Kathy DeVries; his sister, Joanne Lundberg; and by nieces, nephews, extended family, dear friends, former students, and coaching colleagues who were deeply impacted by his kindness and mentorship.

A family-only graveside service will be held at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery in La Conner.
An open house to celebrate Don's life will take place at the Zimmer home in La Conner on Thursday, July 24, from 3pm – 6pm.

In lieu of flowers, a scholarship will be established in Don’s name to support students attending Central Washington University.  Donations may be made at:  https://tinyurl.com/ZimmerScholarship