Leilani Zima

It is with deep sadness that we mourn the passing of Leilani (Lonny) Zima of Schererville, IN on Thursday, September 4th at the age of 87 years old. Born in Chicago, IL, Lonny lived a long life filled with so much laughter and joy. Known for her kindness and fun nature, Lonny never knew a stranger and would make friends anywhere she went. She was a member of several clubs throughout the years and enjoyed keeping her social calendar packed with activities with family, friends, and her various hobbies. She was a lover of tending to her garden, reading thrillers, writing social articles, playing various card games, and shopping for unique finds – and she was always up for a fun adventure.

Lonny’s personality radiated warmth and positivity. Some of her family’s favorite memories with Lonny were nights spent laughing over card games such as UNO, during which she always seemed to win. She was thoughtful, compassionate, loving, funny, and strong, and will be deeply missed by those who loved her. Lonny was truly the best mother, grandmother, and friend anyone could ask for. She will be remembered for the love she shared with her family and community, and her legacy will forever live on in the hearts of the lives she touched.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Christy Gilligan and Billy Zima; grandchildren, Katie (Chris) Gayer, Ashley (Jackson Richey) Blatsioris, Alysia (Glenn Patterson) Blatsioris, Emma Zima, and Lucy Zima; great-grandchildren; Grayson Blatsioris Richey, Rosie Gayer, and Keeley Gayer. She was preceded in death by both her father and mother, George and Evelyn Welsh; her sister, Diane Duckworth; and her daughter, Debbie Walters.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 10th from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm at Kuiper Funeral Home, 9039 Kleinman Road, Highland, IN 46322.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.KuiperFH.com for the Zima family.