Obituary of John "Jack" George Zimmer
John "Jack" George Zimmer
(April 5, 1941 - March 25, 2020)
On March 25, 2020 at the age of seventy-eight we lost our beloved, husband, father and grandfather.
Jack was born April 5, 1941 in Daysland, Alberta into the caring hands of his parents George and Theresa (nee Wolbeck) Zimmer. He would always chuckle when he would recall a memory of all the shenanigans he shared with his nine siblings as a youngster growing up on the family farm.
Jack and Carol Bendfeld were married on February 9, 1963 and began their married life in Camrose where they were blessed with the arrival of their three children. He was a loving father coaching minor ball and hockey and making many early morning trips for figure skating lessons. He made the best stew ever and was more interested in his children enjoying life than doing their homework.
He began a career as a power lineman in 1961 with Farm Electric and retired in 1998 from TransAlta Utilities. Jack was a dedicated and hard-working employee. He often spoke of the comradeship of fellow employees and restoring power in May of 1965 and spring of 1974 and most memorably in 1987 after the tornado in Edmonton.
Jack treasured so many things especially time shared with family and friends. He was a loyal Oiler and Blue Jay fan, enjoyed the daily paper, gardening and making birdhouses and other crafts. Relaxing at the end of the day with a cold beer and a good meal always gave him pleasure.
There was absolutely nothing that brought a smile to his face or a twinkle to his eye as much as the arrival of his grandchildren and sharing in their life as they grew up.
Jack valued the gift of a family that came together through all of life’s experiences. He fought a good fight and we all truly miss him.
He is mourned by his caring wife of fifty-seven years, Carol, and two sons Brent, Dale (Dawn) and daughter Lori Hilgartner (D’Arcy) and three grandchildren, Emily Zimmer (Mike), and Brenden and Dylan Hilgartner.
He is also survived by siblings Don (Nellie), Ken (Betty), Gordon, Garry (Marvis), Robert (Patricia), Sharon Adams (Terry) and Theresa McTavish (Allan), brother-in-law Ross Heck and sister-in-law Janet Zimmer as well as many nieces and nephews.
Jack was predeceased by his parents George and Theresa Zimmer, sister Eileen Heck, brother Lorne, sister-in-law Donna Zimmer and Carol’s parents Otto and Olga Bendfeld. He also mourned the loss of many others.
Due to Alberta Health Regulations, a private family graveside service was held.
If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions in John's memory may be made to in lieu of flowers to the Food Bank - Camrose Neighbor Aid, KidSport, or to the historical church of your choice.
