Sunday, March 5, 2023
Sharing memories of our brother, Garfield Ronald Zimmer. Born at Russell, Mb, Sept 6, 1949 to Lawrence (1922-1988) & Gladys (nee Anderson, Fort Frances, On)( 1924-2002). 2nd son for our mom & 1st son for our dad. Big brother to Bernice Zorn (1950), Lloyd Zimmer (1951-2009), Caroline Novakowski (1953), Clara Czarnecki (1956-2008), Clifford Zimmer (1957). Younger brother to Dennis Anderson 1948-2008).
Garfield’s childhood was etched with trauma & hard work. He carried that work ethic to the end. He was a good man, protective of his mother & siblings. He was also as tough as nails and admittedly made mistakes that cost him dearly. He was a simple person in the wants of his adult life. A ‘really good meal’, a good conversationalist, wrestling, camping, fishing, picking berries, tinkering with machines, visiting. He didn’t ask for more & didn’t expect more. He truly loved his job on ‘the farm’. We tried to persuade him to return to Manitoba but his heart was with his farm families. And he loved Paradise Valley. ‘ Throw my ashes in the valley & I’ll be happy ‘ is what he said.
We’re never ready to say good bye to loved ones. But Garfield had his 1st heart operation at age 29, numerous health scares & serious issues as the years went. He just never gave in & only complained about hospital down time & hospital food.
I’ll miss Sunday evening phone calls. But we remember a good man. Rest In Peace. You deserve to finally retire.
Beez.
