Edward George Zimmerman

Edward George Zimmerman
April 21, 1938 – October 25, 2025

In the quiet morning of October 25, 2025, Edward George Zimmerman was welcomed home to everlasting light. Known affectionately as "Dad" "Pop" and "GGP," Ed embodied pride, devotion, loyalty, selflessness, and sacrifice. Always ready with a joke or a story, he had a remarkable way of making everyone feel better about themselves-never asking for anything in return. A man of simple pleasures and boundless love, he spent his entire life working tirelessly so that his family could have more than he ever did.

Pride defined him. He gave all he had so others could thrive. He met humility with grace. He loved deeply-his wife, his children, his grandchildren, and most of all, the great-grandchildren who filled his later years with immeasurable joy.

Ed is now reunited in heaven with those he missed so dearly: his beloved wife and partner in all things, Frances C. Zimmerman; his cherished son, Mark E. Zimmerman; and his adored grandson, Nicholas E. Colleluori. Fran's recent passing earlier this year broke a piece of his heart-now mended in eternal peace as they are together once more.

He leaves behind a lifetime of treasured memories in the hearts of those who loved him most:
his daughters Cheryl McConnell Colleluori (Pasquale) and Linda McConnell Missanelli (Michael);his grandchildren, who he took immense pride in: Pasquale Jr. (Andrea), Daniel (Jennifer), Michael A. (Kaitlyn), Michael J. (Stephanie), and Jaclyn; and the great-grandchildren who lit up his world: Christopher, Ava, Khloe, Danica, Karsyn, Kyler, Madeline, Nicholas, and Josephine. He is also survived by his loving siblings Carolyn DiSario and Dennis Zimmerman.

As a father, Ed was a steadfast provider-the backbone of a family of three children-often working two or three jobs so his family would never go without. In an era when few resources existed for children with disabilities, he fiercely advocated for and supported his son Mark, ensuring he lived a joyful and fulfilled life. Alongside his devoted wife, he walked through every challenge, teaching that resilience, compassion, and love were life's greatest strengths.

Born in Darby on April 21, 1938, Ed grew up surrounded by strong values that shaped the remarkable man he became. A proud graduate of Lansdowne Aldan High School, where he lettered in football, wrestling, and baseball, he formed friendships and memories that lasted a lifetime.

His professional life was built on discipline and determination. Just three days after graduating high school, he began working in the mailroom at Otis Elevator Company, his sights set on becoming a mechanical engineer. He went on to earn his engineering degree from Drexel University, later contributing his talents to The Fleer Corporation, Johnson Controls, and Philadelphia Chewing Gum Corporation. In addition to his engineering career, he spent many years in transportation at Park-N-Go and proudly tended bar at notable spots throughout Delaware County, especially Rossi's Towne Inn in Essington. Ed was also a lifetime member of the Walker/Odd Fellows Lodge.

Ed and Fran's love story was one for the ages. A chance meeting at the Emerald Room in Wildwood, NJ sparked a lifelong partnership filled with adventure, humor, and unwavering devotion. Whether traveling the world-Japan, Europe, Alaska-or simply enjoying each other's company, their bond was extraordinary. Ed often said, "I may not have much, but I found the love of my life early-and the key was two things: laughter and 'Yes, dear.'"

Ed cherished reading, card-playing, sudoku, crossword puzzles, and cheering on Philadelphia's sports teams-especially the Flyers and Phillies. He was an avid bowler throughout Delaware County, traveling to tournaments and even bowling on teams with his grandchildren. He kept his youthful spirit alive from the stands of Ridley High School and Hofstra University, and proudly supported the mission of the HEADstrong Foundation in Nick's loving memory. He adored Mexican cuisine-especially his all-time favorite, Pancho's Restaurant in Manhattan Beach, California.

The home Ed and Fran created in Secane was a haven-one built on open doors and open arms. For many years, they welcomed international exchange students from Japan and Europe, creating bonds that spanned continents. One such bond-with Scottish navy sailor Robert "Knobby" Clark, whom they first welcomed for Thanksgiving in 1982-became family and remained so through Ed's final day. Ed often said, "I am the proud parent of children from all over the world."

His presence will be missed immeasurably. But the example he set-of love, humility, service, and pride-will continue to guide the generations he leaves behind.

He was a son, a brother, a husband, a father, a grandfather, a great-grandfather, a teammate, and a friend.

Above all, he was Pride in its purest form.

May his soul find peace in the arms of God and in the eternal embrace of those who awaited him.

Services and burial will be held privately.

In honor of Ed's legacy of compassion and generosity, contributions may be made to the HEADstrong Foundation, ensuring his spirit continues to support families in their most vulnerable moments-just as he always did. https://www.headstrong.org/give
or by mail: 1330 MacDade Blvd #2, Woodlyn, PA 19094

Rest peacefully, Pop.
Thank you for being the example.