Howard E. Zimmerman Jr.

Howard E. Zimmerman Jr., age 81, entered into eternal life on Sunday, August 22, 2021, with his loving family by his side.

Howard is survived by his children, Lawrence (Renee) Zimmerman, Sherry (Joseph) Burzawa and Sheryl (Tim) Baker; grandchildren, Samantha (Chris) Groscost, Holly Burzawa, Jeremy (Leanne) Zimmerman, Jeanette (Ronald) Fugger, and T.J. Baker; great-grandchildren, Jaxon, Harper, Stella, Mason and Kolton; sisters, Geraldine Zimmerman and Diane Hert; mother-in-law, Bernice Wilder; sister-in-law, Joyce (Jesse) Tabbert; brother-in-law, Mervin “Red” (the late Donna) Castle; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Janice Zimmerman (nee Lidstrom) (2020); parents, Howard Zimmerman and Clara (Jack) Spafford; great-granddaughter, Alice; and sister, Donna Castle

Howard married his beloved wife, Janice on October 6, 1962. Together they created a beautiful family and remained best friends and fishing partners until their last days together. They are now happily reunited in heaven together. Howard was a journeyman meat cutter at Rudy’s Meat Market in Crest Hill. He then moved on to Caterpillar Company as a welder and finished his working career at Braidwood Nuclear Station as a material handler until his retirement. Howard and Janice retired in Northern Minnesota on Lake Vermillion and spent their golden years together in paradise. Howard loved the outdoors; hunting and fishing were some of his favorite hobbies. He was an avid NASCAR fan and enjoyed following Joey Logano. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of his life; they were always able to bring a smile to his face. He will be truly missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Howard’s name to St. Jude Catholic Church in Joliet would be appreciated.

A celebration of Howard’s life will be held on Friday, August 27, 2021 at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road in Joliet with a memorial visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. followed by a prayer service in the funeral home chapel to be held at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Romeoville.