James F. Zimdars

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James Zimdars Obituary

Zimdars, James F. age 85, of Edina, MN, passed suddenly on January 8, 2007. Graduated Winona State Teacher's College, BS, 1942; U of M, MS, 1946. Married to and is survived by his beloved college sweetheart, Signy Ruth Boler. Served proudly as a US Navy Lieutenant during World War II. Was a teacher, counselor, and principal in Anoka, MN and at Minneapolis Edison, Franklin and Sanford Schools. Affectionately admired and known by students and staff as "Mr. Z." Preceded in death by his father, Alfred and mother, Laura Engles. Survived by brother, Robert; sisters, Shirley, Evelyn (Ron) Petch; children, Jeanne (Richard) Raymond, John (Judy), Sharon (Mark Karnstedt), Steven (Jan); five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Born in Winona, MN, April 1, 1921, lived for many years in his SW Minneapolis home near Lake Harriet. Enjoyed the city lakes, fishing, camping and traveling throughout the U.S. James was known for his sense of humor, loved to tell jokes, and was a friend to all. Interment with honors at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery. Funeral service Thursday, 10 AM, with visitation 1 hour prior to service and also Wednesday (TONIGHT), 5-7 PM at: Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel 952-920-3996 West 50th St. & Hwy 100

This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.

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Published by Star Tribune on Jan. 10, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for James Zimdars

7 Entries

Chris Zimdars

January 13, 2007

I have many so many fond childhood memories of Grandpa: a camping trip to the Wisconsin Dells, Christmas by Lake Harriet with the extended family, Grandpa setting up the Lionel train set on the pool table (I still have that train), visits to Winona to see the great grandparents, swimming at the condominium in Edina, Grandpa showing off his Japanese sword from WWII, fishing trips to Minnetonka and up North, Trivial Pursuit (Grandpa preferred the ‘Science’ category), and many more. He was the patriarch of our family and he loved his grand kids. I miss him a lot.

Bobby Edmondson

January 11, 2007

Dear Jim, I know your're reading this in heaven. I did'nt know you well. But there's somthing I have to tell. I 've known your daughter Sharon through the years, and want to congratulate you on bringing up a shining star. It shows you have reached very far. To the heavens and beyond, across a golden pond, of a light that shines so bright, as a torch she'll carry on, proudly, with a rememberence of you in her heart always. Sleep well my friend. Love, Bobby

Richard Raymond

January 11, 2007

I am sorry that I couldn'g be there to share this time with your family. You have my deep sympathy for your loss. When Jeanne gets home, we are going to have a commerative dinner with Evelyn and Shirley at the Red Lobster restaurant in Salem. We'll tell a few jokes in his honor, and raise a toast to Jim.

Rebecca Edmondson

January 11, 2007

Jim Zimdars was the most patient and understanding gentleman I have had the pleasure to have known. He accepted all that life handed him with a smile and constantly thought of others. I have much yet to learn from his lessons.God has graced us with a moment in life. God graced Jim with eternity.

Mark Karnstedt

January 10, 2007

We're all gonna really miss Jim.He was a very kind and giving person. I had many good times with Jim thru the years,fishing,golfing and quite a few games of hearts, ( of which he was very good at).I am proud to have had Jim as my father in law!

Betty Zimdars

January 10, 2007

My deepest symphathy goes out to Aunt Ruth and family. I remember going to my Uncle Jim and Aunt Ruths house when they lived by Lake Harriet. We used to visit on Sundays and would play pool, ping pong, and lawn darts. I also remember going to Lake Harriet and going on walks by the Lake. Uncle Jim will be missed by many.

Barb Gilbertson (Del Dotto)

January 10, 2007

Dear Jeanne and family,
I was so shocked to read about your Dad's passing (I read it on the internet, because we are down in Alabama). My thoughts and prayers go out to your entire family. I have great memories of living next door to you - one in particular stands out in my mind, it was your Dad answering the door when the policeman returned us girls back to the slumber party from swimming after hours down at the lake. As I recall, the next day your Dad was going to give a speech on Juvenile Delinquency. May all your fond memories of him bring you comfort in the future.
I'm so sorry I won't be able to be there tonight or tomorrow, but I will get in touch with you later.
With love, your former neighbor and friend,
Barb

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