Allen D. Zimmer

Allen Zimmer was born on October 9, 1951, and was raised in Lemmon, SD, where he excelled in music. He played first chair trumpet in the high school band and directed the Spencer Memorial Presbyterian Church choir during his senior year. He attended the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, majoring in music. He joined the US Air Force and played in the NORAD band as well as other bands, and also served in other positions. He was stationed in various US air bases as well as in Guam and the Philippines. He later worked at the Defense Finance Accounting Service, where he made many life-long friends. Al retired to his beloved Vermillion, where he attended many concerts at the college, was a season ticket holder for Coyote football and basketball, and played in the alumni band during Dakota Days. He enjoyed cooking, playing Sudoku, watching classic tv, and drinking an occasional root beer float in memory of his father. His friends enjoyed his frequent posts on Facebook about music, musicians, favorite actresses, memories of friends, and lawn care. Al had a quiet sense of humor and made many friends throughout his life. He passed away quietly in his home on July 19, 2026.

Al was preceded in death by his parents, Lyle and Clara Zimmer, and his brother Gary. He is survived by his sisters Diane (Paul) Gergen, Katheryn (Jim) Driscoll, Julie (Jan) Sessor; brother Jack; nieces and nephews Rebecca (Corey) Roe, Kevin Howell, Michael (Rachael) Driscoll, Clara and Jackson Sessor; and great-niece Elizabeth Roe.

A memorial service will be held at the Black Hills National Cemetery on Thursday, June 10, 2027, at 11:00 am.