Born in Nagano, Japan, Utako met and married Captain William H. Zimmerman (Bill) of the United States Air Force in Tokyo, and together they began their life in the United States in 1952. In 1962, they made their home in the Phoenix area. They shared 49 wonderful years of marriage before Bill’s passing in 2001.
Utako enjoyed a fulfilling 30-year career with Motorola in Phoenix. She was passionate about fitness and aerobics, and had a deep love for animals and her grandchildren, who brought her great happiness.
She is lovingly remembered by her three children: Linda Roesch (David), Barbara Zimmerman (Mark), and William Zimmerman (Andrea), along with her cherished grandchildren: Erica Roesch, Steven Roesch, and Charlotte Zimmerman.
A Joyful Remembrance of Utako’s life will be held on November 2 in Ahwatukee. She will be laid to rest with her beloved husband, Bill at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Utako’s name to Liberty Wildlife in Phoenix, Arizona.
Utako’s spirit of joy, love, and vitality will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
