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BORN
1919
DIED
2015
Donald Ziemke Obituary
He was in ill health for several months, his daughter, Elizabeth Morrin, said.
The longtime West Toledo resident retired in 1981 after an 11-month stint as the city's commissioner of inspection and rehabilitation.
For the previous 15 years, Mr. Ziemke was director of trades for Toledo schools as the district expanded its vocational education program. He knew the benefits of such schooling from the first part of his career - 19 years teaching physics and mathematics to the boys at Macomber Vocational High School.
"He was a mentor and helpful to a lot of people through the years," Mr. Ziemke's daughter said.
With his military background - Army service in World War II and the Army Reserve for decades after - he easily kept order.
He was born May 16, 1919, in Sandusky to Marie and George Ziemke and was a graduate of Norwalk High School.
He attended the College of Wooster and was a 1942 graduate of what is now Ashland University. He later got a master's degree in education from the University of Toledo.
As an Army engineer during the war, he built bridges and air fields in the European and Pacific theaters. He became a colonel in the reserve and was commanding officer of the 463rd Engineer Battalion in Toledo.
He was a past Commander of Toledo American Legion Post 335 and twice the commander of the Military Officers Association of America. He had been on council at Hope Lutheran Church, where he was a member since 1948.
He and the former Mary Jeanne Weimer married Aug. 19, 1946. She died Nov. 3, 2004.
Surviving are his daughter, Elizabeth Morrin; sons, Philip and John; brother, Ed; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren, and a great-great-granddaughter.
Memorial services are at 2 p.m. today in the Marsh Center at Swan Creek Retirement Village. The family suggests tributes to a charity of the donor's choice.
This is a news story written by Blade Staff Writer Mark Zaborney. Contact him at: [email protected] or 419-724-6182.
Memories and Condolences
for Donald Ziemke
11 Entries
August 31, 2015
I have so many great memories of your dad. every time I cross the bridge in Allen Cove and see the house another incident pops into my mind. He was a great person and he will be missed. God bless
Frank Schaetzke
August 29, 2015
I offer my deep condolences for the loss of your loved one. I hope the promise found at 1Thessalonians 4:14 offers you hope and healing.
Patricia Foreman
August 28, 2015
I have wonderful memories of uncle Don and of good times shared by our families. My condolences to you all.
August 28, 2015
During the time Mr. Ziemke spent in independent living I discovered a kind, gracious, soulful man who was full of wisdom. You could see how much he loved his family and how that love was returned to him in many ways. I feel honored to have had the pleasure of knowing Don. Becky, Swan Creek Retirement Village
Jeff Willets
August 27, 2015
Phil and Linda, I was so sorry to read of your father passing today. Know in your heart that he is again united with your mother, and his suffering is over. You have our deepest sympathy, and you will be in our prayers.
May God Rest His Soul.
Jeff & Kathy Willets
Tim Bunner
August 27, 2015
Beth and family, we're sorry to hear about your dad's passing . He certainly lived a long full life.
Tim and Bennett
August 27, 2015
Beth and family, so sorry to hear your Dad has passed. May memories keep him alive in your hearts. A life well lived. Blessings. Dee Carr, Classmate Start '66.
Mary Wening
August 27, 2015
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
August 27, 2015
Don was one of my teachers at Macomber, and I remember him well. Gary Ryan Kenosha Wisconsin
Bud Alderman
August 27, 2015
Beth, Phil and John. Sharon and I were saddened to hear of the passing of your dad. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Jean Alderman Badyna
August 27, 2015
John, Phil & Beth, so sorry to hear of your dad's passing. I have so many great memories of your family. My thoughts are with all of you.
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