Carl Leroy Zimmerman

1933 - 2012

Carl Leroy Zimmerman passed away peacefully after a long journey with Alzheimer's on August 5, 2012; just a week after his 79th birthday. Carl was born to Henry Zimmerman and Helena McNees on July 29, 1933 in Erie, Pennsylvania.
He was raised in Pennsylvania where he graduated from Strong Vincent High School class of 1952. Carl served in the U.S. Army and reserves for a total of 8 years from 1953 until his honorable discharge in 1961. After his military service, he relocated to California starting his career in law enforcement. Carl married La Verne Zimmerman (Cox) in April 1972. They lived their life in Lemoore where they raised their children. He loved his family, children, church, community, and sports, primarily baseball and wrestling. Carl retired after 15 years as a Deputy Sheriff for the Kings County Sheriff's Department. Many people grew to know and love Carl through his volunteer work. He received numerous awards for his community and church involvement over the years which included: President and District Commissioner of Babe Ruth Baseball, active parent, and Lemoore Little league coach; President of the Lemoore Rotary Club, Kings County Grand Jury Chairperson & Foreman, board member of Commission on Aging, Military Order of the Louse Post 36, and past Elder and Deacon at Lemoore Presbyterian Church. He would do anything for others' and never asked for anything in return. Carl enjoyed the ocean and would take frequent trips with his family. He loved the Central Coast of California, mostly Morro Bay and Cayucos. He would often go deep sea fishing with friends and also enjoyed frog gigging. While at home he loved spending time with La Verne and the kids, playing numerous board games. He also loved puzzles. The harder, the better.
Carl was preceded in death by his wife, La Verne, and son James Cox. He is survived by his children, son's Richard Cox, Carl Zimmerman, Jr., Joey Cox, and Paul Zimmerman; daughter's Sherry Douma (Cox), Carla Mueller (Cox), Ginny Lynn Zimmerman and 19 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Carl was a great man, husband and father. His large appearance was softened by his wonderful smile, gentleness and compassionate spirit. He will be truly missed.
Toward the end of Carl's life he told his family that he had a great adventure and he was ready. He said, "I know where I am going, I know how to get there, and it will take no longer than the twinkling of an eye. I'll be waiting for you." Carl fought the good fight and he finished the race and he definitely kept the faith.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, August 10th at 1:00 p.m. at the Lemoore Cemetery. Immediately after the service a celebration of his life will be held at the Lemoore Presbyterian Church, located at 260 B. Street, Lemoore, CA. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lemoore Presbyterian Church Deacon Memorial Fund at 260 B. Street, Lemoore, CA 93245. Arrangements are by Phipps-Dale Funeral Chapel.