Date of death: 2/13/2010
Saint Meinrad Class: O 1952
Father Thomas J. Zimmer, 82, died in Holiday, FL, where he had retired after a long career of service to the Lord in the Lafayette Diocese, serving at parishes in Anderson, Alexandria, Kokomo, Frankfort and Earl Park.Father Zimmer was born on Feb. 14, 1927, in Kentland, Ind., on the family farm to parents Andrew J. Zimmer and Mary (Mamie) Bower.He is survived by his brother, Norbert, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings Joseph Zimmer, Colonel Andrew Zimmer, USMC, and Margaret Jacobs.He attended Saint Meinrad Seminary and was ordained a priest on June 3, 1952. He was instrumental in the construction of Central Catholic High School and served as its Superintendent, where he hosted a fund raiser for Presidential Candidate John F. Kennedy in 1960. He was proud to have served as past State Chaplain for the Knights of Columbus. An avid fisherman, bowler and golfer, he achieved two holes-in-one in the summer of 1997. Watching sports was a favorite pastime, especially the Chicago Cubs. Celebrating Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome in 1984 was a highlight for him. He enjoyed life, loved people and will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Central Catholic Tuition Assistance Fund or to the Seminarian Fund of the Diocese of Lafayette in Indiana.Published in the Lafayette Courier-Journal on 2/16/10.