John Gustave Zimmerman, age 85, of Rochester, passed away March 12, 2026. John was born the son of John and Ruth Zimmerman on July 30, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan. He graduated from Denby High School in Detroit, class of 1958 and married Carol Valleau on September 9, 1961 at Bethany Lutheran Church in Detroit. John earned his bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Wayne State University where he was a proud member of Pi Kappa Alpha and he achieved his master's degree in Business Administration from Case Western University. John had a successful career as a financial executive and business consultant. He was highly regarded as an integral coordinator who facilitated global mergers and acquisitions for companies in multiple industries. His involvement was instrumental in improving a company's efficiency and streamlined operations.
John was a member of St. John Lutheran Church and regularly attended events with the OWLS, he was also a member of the OPC, Indianapolis 500 Old Timers, and a lifelong member of the Financial Executives International. John was an avid Michigan sports fan. John had a passion for Indy car racing, attending every Indianapolis 500 race from 1953 to 2021. He enjoyed northern Michigan with his family and his loyal dog Duncan at the cabin he built. Most of all, John's family and his faith in God were the focus of his life.
John was the loving husband of Carol Zimmerman for 56 years until her passing in 2018; dear father of Julie (Todd) Chesnut of Naperville, Illinois and Jennifer (Brian) Shorkey of East Lansing; caring grandfather of Zach, Ava, Aiden and step-grandson Derek, brother of the late Gretchen Stein.
Visitation will be held on Friday, March 20, 2026 from 1:00 PM until the time of the funeral service at 2:00 PM at St. John Lutheran Church, 1011 W. University Drive, Rochester, Michigan 48307.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in John's honor to St. John Lutheran Church and School by envelope at the service or online at www.Stjohnrochester.org.
