Gary Glenn Zimmerman

Gary Zimmerman of Ponte Vedra, FL., passed away March 5, 2026. Gary was fearless in his resolve to live a life of purpose and meaning while battling cancer the last two and a half years of his life. He was 82.

Born in Lakewood, OH to Glenn and Marie Zimmerman, Gary graduated from Parma High School in 1961 and soon thereafter married Virginia “Jinny” Plumeck, a union that lasted 52 years until her death in 2015. They raised four children, moving frequently as he pursued work opportunities in the food industry. Years of hard work and sacrifice paid off and Gary retired from SUPERVALU as a region president.

Work accolades were plentiful but family was his proudest achievement. He was a compass to his children; his willingness to give guidance and lend support, unwavering. His generosity extended beyond his family. Gary never let anyone pick up the check at a restaurant. He treated everyone.

Gary’s passions included golfing, biking, music and reading. His book collection rivaled that of a small public library. A few of his lesser known talents included drawing and completing the daily crossword puzzle.He was the undisputed champion of Trivial Pursuit. Bewildering to his family was his uncanny sense of direction. He was funny in a quick-witted sense but also in a playful way as evident when he would abruptly start singing in a deep operatic voice.

Perhaps his most unique and treasured quality was his storytelling. At the head of a table, Gary could captivate family and friends with stories. Whether it was recalling an event from earlier in the day or something that happened 30 years ago, his memory of dates, times, people and places was extraordinary and endlessly entertaining. His chair is empty and his absence deeply felt but how lucky are we that our hearts are filled with enough stories and memories to last us a lifetime.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents and brother Alan.

Gary is survived by his four children, son David (Lora) Zimmerman, daughter Tamara LaFortune, daughter Heather Skye and daughter Rachel (Greg) Isenhower as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Gary is survived by his brother Brian (Marissa) Zimmerman and his loving wife of seven years Jan Ertmann Foster and her son Todd (Jennifer) Foster and their children Sydney and Bryce.

The family will hold a celebration of life to honor Gary’s memory.