It’s with great sadness that we share that Raymond Daniel Zimmer, left us on June 1st, 2024 at the age of 97. His cheerful demeanor, smiling countenance, and warm heart will be missed by all whose lives he touched. He is survived by his four children: daughter Kathy (Terry); sons Dan (Debbie); Randy ( Lucia); John (Brenda), his beloved grandchildren Andrew (Jackie), Caitlin (Stefan), Meghan (Victor), Taryn (Tom), Kevin, Chris (Preeti), Russell (Jeanette) & Michael and his great grandchildren Kellan, Luca, Keira, Ryker, Ronan, Anna, Kaley, Nylah, and Eli.
Born in 1927 in the rural hamlet of Kerrobert, Saskatchewan, between the two great wars and at the outset of the Great Depression would seem an inauspicious start to life, but such circumstances can be the author of great strength of character. In Vancouver Ray grew into a strapping young man, excelling in sports as a lacrosse player, and eagerly taking any work that came his way - often working several jobs at a time. At a CYO dance he met the love of his life and he and Terry went on to raise four children.
He'd often lament not having the opportunity to continue his education - only completing grade eight - but he had an exceptionally sharp mind and would routinely complete the New York Times crossword puzzle - considered by many to be the Mount Everest of crossword puzzles. Like all farm boys he learned to be handy from a young age, and eventually found a lifelong career in the home improvement industry, as a glazier cutting glass, making windows and patio doors, managing the operations of various manufacturing plants, before taking the plunge as the owner and proprietor of "Killarney Screen Products" which is how we all had to answer the house phone, pretty much until the day he finally retired, well into his seventies. In retirement he pursued his passions of golf & cribbage - at least until he discovered Mexico & margaritas, which he fell in love with. He travelled to Mexico with various of his children and their friends on multiple occasions, where the resulting exploits bordered on the legendary. He knew how to have a good time, and it was impossible not to share in those good times when in his company.
In addition to a truly wonderful life, Ray was fortunate to enjoy mostly good health right up until the end, and passed peacefully in his sleep, in the company of those who loved him.
We should all be so fortunate. We will all miss him immensely.
Service at 11AM on June 20th, 2024 at Kearney Columbia-Bowell Chapel, located at 219 6th Street in New Westminster. Reception to follow at the Magnolia Room next door to the Chapel. Parking is available in the lot at the rear of the building, accessible via St. George Steet. If using street parking, please mind the meters and parking regulations. We are also conveniently located near the Columbia Street SkyTrain Station and along a regularly scheduled bus route