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Richard Zimmerman Obituary
Dr. Zimmerman grew up in the Chicago suburb of Palos Park. He graduated with honors, receiving a Bachelors of Science degree and Masters degree in Forestry from the University of Illinois in Champaign Urbana. He went on to earn a PhD in Environmental Science from the University of Kentucky in Lexington.
Dr. Zimmerman had a passion for old cars and had owned many, including a Triumph TR3, a Camaro, a Karmann Ghia, and a Bentley. He loved the outdoors, bicycling, and kayaking. He worked for FEMA after Hurricane Charley and was a founding member of the Step Out Sarasota board of directors.
He was a mentor and friend to many.
He is survived by his sister, Janet Ryker; his brother-in-law, Norm Ryker; his niece, Jody Ryker; and nephew, Jeffrey Ryker.
A celebration of life will be arranged at a later date.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Zimmerman
5 Entries
October 27, 2018
I'm truly sorry for your lost may God comfort you and your family at this difficult time He will make your firm, he will make you strong, he will firmly ground you. 1peter5:10
Christopher Pollock
October 22, 2018
I had the honor and privilege of knowing Richard Zimmerman in the last decade of his life. He will be sorely missed.
October 22, 2018
Rich added so much variety and insight to my life through his friendship, mentoring, and teaching. I met him when I was becoming a young man, and he helped me navigate the mysteries of life in a time when I needed guidance badly. Rich frequently donated his time and energy to causes that meant something to him, and I count myself as one of those causes, and I'm very grateful.
I will always fondly recall the memories we shared together as we started a non-profit organization, sang karaoke at Charlotte's Web (loudly!), nearly sank a canoe on the way through the mangrove tunnels near his home, and when he gave me firm advice about personal challenges.
Dr. Richard Zimmerman was a man of great taste and insight, and he will be missed by his friends and family mightily. May he be forever remembered as a fierce fighter for justice, equality, kindness, and learning.
Susan Zimmerman
October 21, 2018
Richard was a good cousin and a good man. Although he and I did not have a lot of contact in recent years, I have many fond memories of Rich and will miss him.
Randy Short
October 21, 2018
He was an awesome guy. I had the honor to know him for many years. To his family my condolences to you, to him rest in peace my friend you will truly be missed by many.
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