David Clarence "Dave" Zimmerman, age 89, of Gresham passed away surrounded by family on Thursday September 11, 2025, in Appleton. Dave was born on September 22, 1935, in Elgin, Illinois to the late Clarence and Iola Zimmerman. In 1954 he graduated from Elgin High School. October of that year he was enlisted into the United States Marines where he served his country proudly and was honorably discharged in 1957. Once back in Wisconsin, Dave attended college for engineering at University of Wisconsin-Platteville. In 1959, he was united in marriage to Mary Ellen Trager, together they had four wonderful children. Dave first worked at FWD and then owned and operated Northeastern Design. He then transitioned into being a professor at University of Wisconsin Parkside for engineering then worked as a contractor in construction. He was stubborn but fair and a great storyteller that even the same story became grander each time  they were told. Dave enjoyed hunting, fishing, he was the perfect outdoorsman finding peace in nature and feel in love with wildlife. He was talented, creative, intelligent with his craft may it have been building his own house, his children's homes and throughout his careers.

Dave is survived by his children, Daniel Zimmerman, Teresa (Patrick) Challe, Andrew Zimmerman and Melissa (Greg) Trinko; grandchildren, Nicholas, Hannah, Nathan, Jacob, Evan, Thomas and Alexis; great-grandchildren, Ian, Lennon, Holland and Vanna. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Dave is preceded in death by his siblings, James Zimmerman, Kristine Krog and a sibling in infancy; and daughter-in-law, Catherine Zimmerman.

A funeral service for Dave will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday September 27, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Shawano. Visitation will be held on Saturday at the church from 9:30 am until the time of service. Burial will be held at the St. Francis Solaun Catholic Cemetery following the service. Military honors will be conducted by the Gresham American Legion Post #390 at the cemetery.