Kathy Zimmerman

Katheryn “Kathy” Zimmerman, age 81, of Merrill, passed away on Friday, September 13, 2024, at Woodland Elder Services in Merrill, while under the care of Aspirus Hospice. She was born on July 23, 1943, to the late Winfield and Olive (Johnson) Craven in Merrill. Kathy grew up in the Merrill area, attending and graduating from Merrill High School with the class of 1961. On October 7, 1961, Kathy married her best friend and soul mate, Patrick Zimmerman in Merrill, a strong and loving union lasting 61 years. 

Kathy began her working career as a key card operator at Weinbrenner Shoe Company. She then worked to care for their three children during their formative years. In 1977 Kathy and Pat purchased Champs Family Restaurant in Merrill, which they operated together for the next 18 years. She then worked until her retirement as a teller at M&I Bank in Merrill where she enjoyed seeing many people from the Merrill community. Kathy was very involved in church activities through most of her life. She was very active in Bible study groups, hosting many in her home. She was also a member of the Merrill Christian Women’s Club for many years. Most recently, she attended Highland Community Church. Kathy’s faith in God was a priority in her life, and she lived each day in her faith. Kathy is remembered by her children and grandchildren as loving, caring, supportive, and a source of quiet strength. She will be sadly missed by all her friends and family, but never forgotten.

Kathy was preceded in death by her husband Patrick Zimmerman of Merrill, WI. She is survived by her three children: Tim (Brenda) Zimmerman of Schofield, WI, Rod (Michelle) Zimmerman of Menomonee Falls, Chris (Matt) Eder of Merrill, WI, grandchildren whom she adored: Bryce, Ally, Mike, Nick, Sydney, and Mia. She is further survived by nieces and nephews. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents and sisters Amy Ebert and Beatrice Fuller.

The memorial service for Kathy will take place on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at 4:00pm at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill. Pastors Dan Shields and Adam DeBroux will officiate. Visitation will take place on Sunday, September 22, 2024, from 1:00pm until 3:45pm. Inurnment at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery will take place at a later date.

For those unable to attend in person, the service will be live streamed on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at 4:00pm and will be available for viewing under her obituary on the funeral home website. It will then be posted as a recording for future viewing.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the staff at Woodland Elder Services, Kindhearted Home Care and Aspirus Hospice for the care given to their mom and for the support shown to the family.

In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to the Merrill City Band, as it was very important to both Kathy and Pat, and they enjoyed it for many years together. 

Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.