Philip James Zimmerman

In his own words:

What a great life! Born in Wheeling, WV. Thanks Mom & Dad, Flo and James Zimmerman, for being such caring parents. Raised in Sewickley, PA. A love of reading & sports but no other school subjects eliminated any college hopes. An all-state track season & senior class president opened no doors. My main high school gift was from Coach John Nusskern who gave me a lifelong love of physical fitness and weight training. Thanks, Coach.

Upon graduation in 1956 I joined the Navy & served on the U.S.S, Hank (DD 702) as a deckhand & in the fire control radar gang. In 1957 in Livorno, Italy I was crushed while working on a radar unit. After 7 months in various hospitals I was medically discharged with a 100% disability.

I wanted to be a physical education teacher. The University of Tampa and Professor Adams gave me a chance. After 8 years of beach, bodybuilding, & classes I got my degree in PE.

Two failed marriages (my fault), a freighter trip to Hong Kong, summers shoveling hot patch & winters working in gyms (Harry Smith’s and Hector’s) I was ready to teach. I spent 25 years teaching PE and coaching at Webb Jr High and another 20 coaching track at Leto H.S. A below average football and basketball coach (I apologize to team members), I had some success in track and fitness winning county and state titles in that order. PE was my pride and joy. No PE class (boys and girls) worked harder than the Webb students. Fitness tests, 12 min run, weight training were part of an outstanding program at Webb. Many thanks to teachers and students, especially Sol and Norb.

At the start of my teaching career I married a beautiful young woman (Sandy Johnstone) with two children Matt and Evelyn whom I adopted. We soon had a son, Dax. Another divorce followed (again on me) & a few years later Sandy gave me Dax to raise. I did the best I could & I couldn’t be prouder of the man he has become. His son Hux is a fine young man with a bright future. I would not be as happy & active today if it weren’t for the love and caring of Sherry Caropreso who stuck with me over 48 years. Thanks, Sherry. I love you.

To Art Psillis and all my gym & golfing friends I give a shout out.

That about does it.