Ronald Alan Zimbalist, son of John and Gertrude Zimbalist (deceased), born on January 23, 1944 in Rochester, New York, passed away peacefully at home in Redding, CA on June 4, 2013.

Ron was a lifelong educator in Los Angeles, Redding, Red Bluff and Sacramento. He attended Verdugo Hills High School in Tujunga, CA; he received his B.A. from CSU Northridge, his M.A. from Pepperdine University, and his Ph.D. in education from the University of California Santa Barbara. Ron taught middle school for 15 years before becoming an administrator and was twice named administrator of the year by the Association of California School Administrators. After retirement in 2005, he remained active in public education as a consultant for the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. He was a longtime member of Rotary International and an active member of St. Luke's Anglican Church.

An avid sports enthusiast, Ron enjoyed biking, golfing, and gardening, and coached school and community teams for many years.

He is survived by his wife, Daphne (43 years); two sons, Matthew and Jeffrey; daughter, Barbara and granddaughters, Lillian and Olivia.

Funeral service to be held at St. Luke's Anglican Church in Redding, CA on Saturday, June 8 at 11:00 a.m. Arrangements handled by Allen & Dahl Funeral Chapel (530) 243-1525.

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Published by Redding Record Searchlight on Jun. 6, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Ronald Zimbalist

6 Entries

David Norby

July 22, 2025

Ron and I attended junior high and high school together at Verdugo Hills. At that time both school's were on the same campus. We were both on the college prep track, so we shared a lot of classes each year. Always a nice person to everyone. I can't recall ever seeing him in a confrontation, or even speaking ill of anyone behind their back. A good guy.

June 10, 2013

I am truly saddened to hear of Ron's passing. I taught at Vista with Ron as my principal. He was indeed a "class act". He was fair, patient, creative, and a friend. I cherish the memories of this wonderful man. God Bless you all as you learn to go on with life. May your memories be rich and joyful. Carol Cumming, Redding, CA

Debbie (Drake) Norris

June 7, 2013

Daphne, may God be with you, and comfort you and your family during this time of sorrow. I only knew Ron through my brother-in-law, Doug, and I always thought of him as being a very kind and likable young man. I remember going to your wedding...it must be over 43 years ago, as Gary Norris and I wed some years after you, and our 40th anniversary is approaching. I know that Doug always considered him to be his best friend, and had fun stories of the two of them growing up together. Doug and Pam were so saddened to learn of your news. They had been planning to go to Redding to see you when their "grandchildren-sitting" duties lightened up in a couple of weeks.I know they were almost shocked to learn of Ron's passing. Gary and I will keep you and your family in our prayers. From what I have read, it sounds like Ron was a remarkable man, loved and respected by all. I hope that your wonderful memories, God's everlasting love, the presence of friends, and the balm of time help to easel your heart. My thoughts and prayers go out to you.

June 7, 2013

The years I taught with Ron as our principal were truly the best years of my 30 years of teaching. He was incredibly supportive of students and teachers. He had wonderful ideas that he implemented to make Vista school so much better. His passing is so sad for so many of us who knew him as a kind, compassionate leader.
Terry Howie

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Gordon Duncan

June 7, 2013

Ron was the best school administrator that I ever had the privilege to work under. He had a vision and had the skills to work with his staff to get them on board and to move them into a team effort mode. He always dealt with us with patience and respect. He was a humble visionary, a gentleman of integrity, and an outstanding leader. I will always thank the Lord for his years of leadership at Vista School in Red Bluff. My best years there. God bless you, family, as you grieve. May the myriad of wonderful memories of this good man bring comfort to your hearts.

Liz Kalinowski

June 7, 2013

I am very saddened to hear of Ron's passing. I have known Ron for nearly 30 years & in that time he was always the true definition of a "gentle" man. May God bless the Zimbalist family & speed their healing as they begin this new chapter in their lives. And may they take comfort in knowing that their beloved Ron was respected & admired for the great man he was.

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