Ray was born in Peoria, Illinois on June 18, 1925 to Arnold David and Emma Marie Zimmermann (nee: Koller) who preceded him in death. He was the beloved husband of over 55 years to the late Joyce Zimmermann (nee: Hill); loving father of Kathlyn Clamors (the late Roger), and Kristine Zimmermann; devoted granddad of Mark Clamors (Natalia) and Michael Clamors (Jennifer); and dear great grandfather of 1 and step-great grandfather of 2. Ray is also survived by nieces, a nephew, cousins and friends. He is also preceded in death by his sisters, Emma M. Zimmermann and Frieda C. Oligschlaeger (the late Joseph).
Ray proudly enlisted in the U.S. Navy Seabees in 1943, serving his country during World War II. He was stationed at several Navy bases during his time of service and those included: Camp Perry, VA, Port Heuneme, CA, Adak Island of the Aleutian Islands in Alaska, the Hawaiian Islands after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the Philippines, and then China. He was honorably discharged in 1946. Ray came from a hard-working family, and because of that he was a member of the Sheet Metal Workers Union for over 70 years (presently Sheet Metal Local 36). In his free time, Ray enjoyed fishing, traveling, vegetable gardening, loving his pets, and being outdoors. However, what was most important to him was the time spent and memories made with his family and friends. He will truly be missed by all those persons whose lives he touched.
In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations may be made in Ray’s name to The Heart Center Fund at Missouri Baptist Medical Center or Shriners Hospitals for Children – St. Louis.
