Ron Zimmerman

Ronald Lee Zimmerman was born on February 9, 1942, and at the age of four, Ron was adopted into the loving home of Martin and Rose (Schmitz) Zimmerman, where he was raised with the love, care and support that would shape his life. He shared a very close and loving relationship with his parents throughout their lives and remained deeply connected to them. Ron was baptized, received his First Communion and later confirmed his faith at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia, where he remained a lifelong member. He received his education from St. Boniface Catholic Schools and graduated with the class of 1960. Ron proudly served in the United States Army from 1961 to 1963.

On April 23, 1966, Ron married Marilyn Goetzinger at St. Boniface Catholic Church. They were blessed with three children, Rick, Brenda and Randy, and made their home in Westphalia. Ron began his construction career at Wigness Machine Shop and went on to become a master carpenter and dedicated scrap iron hauler. He spent his career building and fixing things with skill, pride and a willingness to tackle just about any job.

Ron was a member of the Westphalia Volunteer Fire Department and proudly served his community. He enjoyed being outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. Baseball was one of his greatest passions. Shortly after high school, his talent on the mound earned him a trip to Florida for a Dodgers’ pitching camp, though a spider bite on his hand, and a touch of homesickness, eventually brought him home. Baseball remained an important part of his life, and he pitched for the Red Sox Town Team in Westphalia for many years. He also enjoyed coaching his children’s Little League teams and was always proud of their accomplishments.

Ron’s baseball stories became legendary, including tales of including the story of a monstrous home run that traveled farther than anyone in town had ever seen. But his reputation on the mound was just as impressive. He could throw a fastball with incredible speed and force, so hard that people swore there were flames trailing behind it. His formidable pitching stories still circulate, and local legends have certainly kept them alive.

Above all, Ron cherished his family, especially his grandchildren. He and Marilyn traveled to support them at their various games and events, not missing a game from T-ball through high school. He also enjoyed spending time with them fishing. Ron was an honest man who believed in tough love, but his pride in his family knew no bounds. Anyone who met Ron was sure to hear just how proud he was of his grandchildren.

After living in Westphalia for more than 60 years, Ron and Marilyn moved to Elkhorn, Nebraska, to be closer to family.

Ron passed away on Saturday, September 12, 2026, at the Douglas County Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska at the age of 84 years, seven months and three days. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Brenda Zimmerman; parents-in-law, Ed and Agnes (Wageman) Goetzinger; brothers-in-law, Chuck Goetzinger and Bill Goetzinger; and sisters-in-law, Jane Goetzinger and Lois Goetzinger.

Ron is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Marilyn Zimmerman of Elkhorn, Nebraska; children: Rick (Lora) Zimmerman of Golden, Colorado and Randy (Angie) Zimmerman of Elkhorn, Nebraska; cherished grandchildren: Anissa Zimmerman, Natasha Zimmerman, Jake Zimmerman, Zac Zimmerman and Will Zimmerman; and many other dear relatives and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., with visitation from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., on Friday, September 18, 2026, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Westphalia. Inurnment with military honors will follow in the St. Boniface Cemetery. The family will direct memorial donations to be made in his memory. The family invites those attending the visitation to honor Ron by wearing their favorite baseball attire, reflecting his love of the game and cheering on his favorite team (the Yankees).

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7

A note of gratitude: The family extends their deepest appreciation for the outpouring love, prayers and support during this time. Special thanks to the VA for their compassionate care and guidance.