Robert A. Zimmerman, 88 years of age. Local Historian of Second Street Weatherly, Pennsylvania passed away on Tuesday, August 1, 2023, at home.
Born Tuesday, July 23, 1935 in Freeland, the son of the late Alvin, and Dorothy (Becker) Zimmerman. Bob was also predeceased by; sister, Joyce N. Gerhard.
Surviving are; his beloved wife of 58 years, Carolyn Jean (Rodgers) Zimmerman; son, Eric K. Zimmerman wife Kara of Audenried; sister, Sandra Lee Meier wife of late George of Weatherly, grandchildren, Seth J. Zimmerman and wife Brandy of Freeland ; Erin Mae Zimmerman of Freeland; great grandchildren, Gabriella, and Joseph Zimmerman. He is also survived by his beloved comfort dog, Snickers.
A 1953 graduate of Freeland High School, Bob served honorably in the United States Army serving as a medic in France as a Peace keeper during the Cold War He was a 1968 graduate of Bloomsburg College and retired from National Starch in Humbolt as a research Assistant. Previously Bob had worked at Beryllium in Ashmore for over 20 years, and at Consolidated Cigar in McAdoo.
A History buff, Bob belonged to the Freeland Historical Society, Pa German Cultural Heritage Society, and was involved with the restoration of Eckley Miners Village for over 50 years, serving on the Board of directors, On April 27, 2018 Bob was awarded the PHMC's Outstanding Service Award for exceptional, long-term service to Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, our historic sites and museums, and the people of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Bob's dedication to Eckley's Miners Village has lasted over 50 years. He has contributed to every aspect of educational programming, services, and events on site. From village tours to researching and providing displays on history and the arts, no one has done more to advance the mission and the standing in the community. Bob's unyielding, selfless, and long-term contributions to Eckley have included aiding in the creation of tour guide training manuals, and mentoring his fellow volunteers. He has given several hours at a time for events, programming, planning, and cleaning. He has submitted integral research to support programs and events and has served as president of the board. Bob hates giving one-hour tours, because according to him, "you can't give a decent tour in less than 90 minutes. Two hours is better." Bob also was a member of the Hazleton Art League.
Bob enjoyed antiquing, astronomy, gardening, and hiking.
Private arrangements entrusted to the Philip J. Jeffries Funeral Home & Cremation Services 211 First Street Weatherly, Pennsylvania 18255. (570) 427-4231
Interment Union Cemetery Weatherly, Pennsylvania.
Memorials in his name to:
Shepherd House, Inc.
1067 Main Road
Lehighton, Pennsylvania 18235
or
Carbon County Animal Shelter
63 Broad Street
Nesquehoning, Pennsylvania 18240
Online condolences may be made to the family at
www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com