Leonard Ben Zimmelman

March 4, 1947 - April 9, 2023 We are saddened to announce the passing of Len on Sunday April 9th from the insidious consequences of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) – commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig's Disease. After his diagnosis in early 2022, Len was steadfastly determined to remain in his gorgeous home and in a neighborhood overflowing with extraordinary friends who could not do enough to make his life as pleasant as possible. Some of the highlights in the last year were playing cards with his poker buddies, constantly maintaining his remarkable garden, visiting the nearby lake and passing out treats to the dogs who came to recognize him.
Len was born and raised in Los Angeles. He attended his local grade school and junior and high schools. In the late 1960's, he graduated from UCLA and then received his Master's Degree at Art Center College of Design in L.A., where he later taught classes to grateful students.
During Len's career as a creative and art director, he was responsible for some memorable ads, including the humpback whale breaching in the Pacific Life commercial and being assigned to manage Gary Coleman, whose ads for Cash Call can be found on YouTube. He was the creative director for commercials for Dole. Playboy was another client. He enjoyed teasing his brother with stories about work he did for "Hugh".
Len was an incredible son, husband, brother, uncle, stepfather, grandfather, brother-in-law and devoted friend. He is already deeply missed.
At his request, there will be no funeral. Donations can be made to the ALS Association http://weboc.alsa.org/goto/LenZimmelman or the Alzheimer's Association.