Russell Orin Zimmerman

Russell Zimmerman Obituary

Russell Orin Zimmerman 1936 ~ 2006 On a warm and inviting fall afternoon, our loving husband, father and grandfather tenderly returned home to his Heavenly Father on Thursday, November 2, 2006 with his family by his side. He and his twin sister Betty Lou were born on January 23, 1936 in Riverside, California to Orin and Pearl Miller Zimmerman. He graduated from East High, attended the U of U and took many other educational courses; was in the Air Force six years before serving in the Western States Mission for the LDS Church. He worked for the State of Utah DOT in labs and materials for 35 years. He married the love of his life Sheila Thomson, from Aberdeen, Scotland, in the Salt Lake Temple on March 20, 1964 and now reside in Sandy. They are the parents of Gina Knighton (Lowell), and Richard Zimmerman (Angela) and the proud grandparents of Sean, Brittney, Colton and Sydnee Knighton and Joseph Zimmerman. He also leaves behind Peggy Allen, Iona Humphries (Albert), Jackie Munoz, Marie Hargett, James (Debi) Biorge, and many nieces, nephews and extended family members. Russell was a faithful member of the LDS church and had the pleasure of serving in the Jordan River Temple Baptistry for the past 14 years. He was an avid golf and football fan; enjoyed teaching chess at Alta View Elementary. He loved books, Tic Tacs and family vacations, especially to Disneyland. He was a TRUE gentleman and made others feel welcome. Funeral services will be held at noon, Thursday Nov. 9th at the LDS ward chapel on 8735 Harvard Park Drive (1065 E.). Friends and family may call from 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 8th at Memorial Estates Mortuary 5820 S. 900 E., Murray, and at the church one hour prior to services. A special thanks to VA Hospital doctors and nurses and the ICU nurses at Alta View Hospital. He would like you to remember "Study, Pray and Attend Church!"

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Salt Lake Tribune from Nov. 7 to Nov. 8, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Russell Zimmerman

11 Entries

Rudy & Lori Klopfer

November 16, 2006

How much we feel for your loss. Sheila and family, we sure love your family. I have so many good memories of New Years Eve parties and watching the football games the next day. Also the Easter get togethers were memorable with the Zimmermans in SLC. How much better we are for knowing Russell. Our prayers and thoughts are with you, Sheila, Gina, and Richard. Russell definately was a giant in my eyes and was a great father and I knew he loved the Lord. Thanks for being a part of my life.

Kathleen Wayne

November 9, 2006

I had lunch with Russel quite often before he retired. I hope he enjoyed the antique scales we were able to get for him. I moved to CA, and just came up to visit my family. He was a terrific person. Sincerely Kathleen Wayne

Sallie Atkinson Eddy

November 9, 2006

Dear Sheila,
We have thought of you often over the years. We saw the obit. in the paper. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We will always remember days gone by.
Love, Sallie & Dick Eddy

Russell & Carolyn Wardle

November 9, 2006

Sheila,
Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time. I'm sorry we didn't get to the funeral. I have been out of town on jobs trying to stay ahead of the weather in such a seasonal business.

I always enjoyed Russ. He always seemed to have something to smile and joke about. I enjoyed my association with him in the High Priest group.

We enjoy our association with you and appreciate all you do.

Russell & Carolyn Wardle

Galen Chatterton

November 9, 2006

Sheila,

We are saddened to hear of Russell's passing. We look fondly back to the days when we were your neighbors. Russell was alway such a kind friend, and will be missed by everyone with whom he had come in contact.

Our love and thoughts go out to you and your family.

Galen & Karen

Terence L. Day

November 8, 2006

I was greatly saddened to learn today (11/8/06) of Russ' passing. We were pals at Castle AFB in California, in the late '50s. I hope none will think it inappropriate that I share the following story about Russ.

Russ was a radio oprator who often came to church Sunday morning after working all night. We soon discovered that Russ could sleep through meetings by sitting at rigid military "attention" with his arms folded across his chest and his eyes wide open.

Once we discovered this talent, life got tough for Russ as we would wait until he was soundly sleep, then poke him in the ribs to watch him spring to life!

Russ had a wonderful impact on many lives, including mine.

Carolyn Graham

November 8, 2006

Russell was such a dear neighbor. Even though our family was not of the Mormon faith, that didn't stop Russell and his family from befriending us. The last time I saw Russell I was with my mother and brother Gene. We were at a gas station in Mesquite NV, and Gene just casually said, "Oh look it's the Zimmermans" with out a thought we all embraced as if no time had gone by. But that was how Russell and Sheila made you feel, that even though we had moved many mile away when a chance meeting came it was like no time had passed. God Bless you Russell, I know the lord had received a very strong Angel. My prayers are with you Sheila, Richard & Gina. Know that the Lord is taking notes from Russell and I'm pretty sure he will use them.

Love always,

Carolyn Graham

George Gilgen

November 7, 2006

As a Child the thing I loved to most about the Biorge Christmas party was the opportunity to see my Grand pa and Russ. He will be missed.
Love George Gilgen

June & Steven Christensen

November 7, 2006

Russ is a shining example of Christ-like love. We will always remember his thoughtful kindness and fun sense of humor. He was a true gentleman. Our lives have been enriched by our association with him and his special wife, Sheila. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. May your memories bring you comfort and peace.
"Well done, thou good and faithful servant."

Brent Christensen

November 7, 2006

Russ was my Sunday school teacher and I was his home teaching companion for almost five years when I was growing up. I am very grateful to know him. He always made me feel good when I was around him and encouraged me in everything I was involved in. I am grateful to have such a good friend in my life.

Julie (Gilgen) Cline

November 7, 2006

I feel very fortunate to have had Uncle Russ in my life. I always remember him with that big smile on his face and that amazing grip. He will be deeply missed.

Showing 1 - 11 of 11 results