Obituary

Joseph T. Zimmerman, 76, died of acute leukemia at home on December 7, 2017. He was born in Omaha, NE on September 6, 1941, the youngest of 6 kids. He grew up in Neola and later moved to Des Moines. He graduated from Dowling High School, Conception Seminary, and earned Master’s Degrees from Drake University and Utah State University.

Joe had a passion for math and a love of teaching. He taught in the Des Moines Public School district for 43 years with the majority of his time at Hoover High School and Central Academy. He inspired his students to have fun with math. He was a nationally board-certified teacher and received the Presidential Teaching Award for Excellence in Mathematics. Joe was so devoted to teaching that even in his death, he will continue teaching by donating his body to Des Moines University. He was a loyal husband, a loving father, and cherished grandfather. He loved singing with the Celebration Singers and participating in nearly every aspect of mass. He has always had a dog by his side and is undoubtedly enjoying a furry reception.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, JoAnn, his children, Lisa (Dean) Flyr of Urbandale, Mark (Denise) Zimmerman of Urbandale, and Susie (Nick) Constantino of Orlando, FL; grandchildren Joseph, Anna, and Matthew Flyr, Andrew and Elizabeth Zimmerman, and Gracie, Luca, and Leo Constantino; brothers Bill and Don Zimmerman, and sister Anne Moore, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, and special friends.

He is preceded in death by parents Floyd and Bernice Zimmerman, sisters Mary Ellen Wellman and Jean Fischer, and infant sons Tommy and David.
Visitation will be Sunday, December 10 at St. Pius Church from 1-3pm with a service 3-4pm, and a celebration of his life mass will be Monday, December 11 at 10AM at St. Pius.

In keeping with his love of teaching and dogs, memorial contributions can be made to St. Pius X Catholic School for scholarships and Canine Companions for Independence (North Central Region in Delaware, Ohio).