Last December 7th, 2010 Rev. Dr. John C Zimmermann was called to his heavenly reward. He was 96 years old and was a humble, faith-filled servant of the LCMS for more than 63 years as a pastor, District President, visitation pastor and finally Pastor Emeritus.
John was married to Mae Etta Wheat June 5, 1938. Their marriage was blessed with 5 children, 2 daughters and 3 sons; all 3 sons also becoming LCMS pastors.
Dr. Zimmermann served Iowa District East as pastor at St. Paul, Eldora from 1948 to 1974. In 1970 he was elected District President and continued to serve both positions until 1974 when the presidency was made full time. He served as District President for three terms, 1970-1982. During his ministry he served as International Counselor of the LWML; was a member of the Board of Governors of the Concordia Historical Institute, St. Louis; and received the Doctor of Divinity Degree from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis.
In 1982 he retired and he and his wife moved back to Eldora where he served as visitation pastor for five years. In 2002 they moved to the Vinton Lutheran Home. Over the years John and Mae Etta led many tours to Germany and the Holy Land. He enjoyed wood working, gardening and especially growing roses.
