Lester Peter Zimmer

Born to William F. and Matilda (Bohl) Zimmer, Lester was a man of deep faith, unwavering integrity, and a generous heart. He lived a life centered on family, service, and helping others, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

In 1949, he married the love of his life, Peggy J. Schofstoll, and together they built a home filled with love and were blessed with two children, Lester Lee and Brenda. Throughout their years together, family remained at the center of Lester's life. Following Peggy's passing in 1987, he was blessed to find love again and married Bonnie (Konradi) Young in 1992. Together, they shared many happy years, and were members of Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne.

Lester's career began as a state bank examiner. In 1956, his work brought the family to Columbus, IN, and in 1962 he joined Union Bank & Trust in Franklin, IN. While living there, he played an important role in the formation of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, a reflection of his dedication to his faith and community. In 1975, he moved to Fort Wayne and continued his banking career with Anthony Wayne Bank, later Chase Bank, until his retirement in 1993.

Retirement did not slow him down. Lester was happiest when he was serving others, staying active, or fixing something that needed attention. Through Holy Cross, he volunteered with Cross Borders, serving as treasurer for 10 years, and helping support those in need. He was an avid photographer who loved capturing life's special moments and preserving memories for family and friends.

Lester believed in staying active and healthy. He faithfully exercised at the YMCA well into his 80s. Family members tell the story of how, at age 55, he entered his first running race and won his age group. It was a perfect example of his determination and quiet competitiveness.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Bonnie Zimmer; his son Lester Lee of Franklin, Indiana; his daughter Brenda (Ted) Hathaway of Fort Wayne; 3 grandchildren, Brad (Holly) Hathaway, Peggy (John) Weinrich, and Chad Hathaway; stepson David (Sharon) Young of Sunman, IN; step grandchildren Brendon (Conner) Young and Alyssa (Tyler) Morehead: 5 great grandchildren; & 1 step great grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Peggy Zimmer; his sister, Dorothy Vogelsang; and his brother, William "Bill" Zimmer.

Our Dad taught us by example what it meant to live with faith, work hard, love your family, and help others whenever you could. We will miss his steady presence, his wisdom, his willingness to lend a hand, and the comfort of knowing he was only a phone call away.

We were truly blessed to have him in our lives. While we shed tears because we will miss him dearly, we rejoice knowing that he is now at peace in heaven, reunited with loved ones and welcomed into the presence of his Savior. His legacy of faith, kindness, and love will live on in all who knew him. Our Dad requested to be buried with a fork in the coffin. The fork comes before dessert, symbolizing that "the best is yet to come" in the afterlife. It represents hope, heaven, and looking forward to what comes next.

Funeral service will be held at 2:00pm on Friday, June 12, 2026, at D.O. McComb & Sons Funeral Home - Covington Knolls, 8325 Covington Rd., Fort Wayne, IN with visitation beginning two hours prior. Entombment to follow at Concordia Gardens Cemetery, 5365 Lake Ave., Fort Wayne, IN.

In lieu of flowers , the family requests memorial contributions may be made in Lesters memory to: American Heart Association, Community Harvest Bank, or Cross Border Partners.