Howard Burton Zimmer's Obituary
Howard B. Zimmer Mar. 14, 1930 ~ Feb. 17, 2012 Resident of Danville Howard Burton Zimmer passed away peacefully surrounded by the family that loved him. He will be missed more than words can express. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend. Howard was born to Florence and Paul Zimmer in 1930. He was the second oldest child and with brothers Paul, Norman and sister Doris he grew up in Oakland, California. His father passed away when Howard was only 13 years old. Howard immediately went to work as a butcher to help his family. 1n 1948, at a bus station in Oakland’s Fruitvale district, he met the love of his life, Beverly Zampa and they almost immediately fell in love. This began a most wonderful family love affair. Beverly’s parents, Pete and Maria Zampa loved him like a son. Beverly’s brother Pete Jr., was like a brother to him. They all lived within a mile of one another, and spent every possible holiday, birthday or special occasion together. Howard said many times, that being a part of the Zampa family was the most wonderful thing to ever happen in his life. Howard enlisted in the Marine Corps at the beginning of the Korean War and served in the 1st Marine Division. He was a part of the Chosen Few, members of the 1st Marines involved in the most famous battle of the Korean War. He was wounded in action and came home to begin his life again. He became a City of Alameda Firefighter, studying relentlessly, preparing for each promotional exam, and retired as Assistant Fire Chief. He took great pride in his career and this accomplishment. Howard’s work ethic was unparalleled. On his days off, he continued to work as a butcher and often finished his long day by preparing a wonderful dinner for his family. Howard was an amazing man, who was one of the original do-it-yourselfers. There was nothing he wouldn’t try to build or repair. He remodeled his home, refinished his boats and fixed his cars. Howard loved camping and boating, and over the years progressed from a small 8 foot dingy found on the beach in Alameda, to a 36 foot houseboat the “Zim Fizz” on which he and Bev had so many wonderful times with their friends. Howard loved to travel. He and Beverly took many trips to Hawaii and Europe, filling numerous photo albums that Howard just loved to show you! More importantly, Howard was a beloved member of our family, who we will miss more than words can express. He is survived by his sister Doris Morris, his wife Beverly, sons Randy (Ruth) and Pete, daughter Kathy (Tim Bieber), Grandsons Anthony (Adrienne), Nicholas, Peter Jr., Matthew and Grand daughter Chrissy (Matt Queen). Along with his loving nephews Michael Zampa and Ricky Zampa and our extended Zampa and Zimmer family. Funeral Services will be held at Chapel of the Chimes in the Mission Chapel, 32992 Mission Blvd, Hayward, CA 94554 on Friday, February 24th at 11:00 am, burial immediately after. A reception will be held afterwards. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to the St. Jude Society in his name.
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