Walter J. Zimlich

Walter J. Zimlich, Beloved husband of Celia E. Zimlich (nee Gillilan) for 70 years.  Dear father of Alan, Eileen, Karen (Bruce Guder) and Brian (Nancy).  Cherished grandfather of Chris Koprowski, Michelle Costanza, Don Gero, Lisa Dray, Lori Radka, Cindi Gotliebowski, Cathie Gero, Cheri Leetch, Molly and Sean.  Great-grandfather of Nick, Shannon, Austin, Christian, Mikoyen, Mikenzie, Maddie, Bella, Maggie, Josie and Juliana Wren.  Brother of (deceased):  Claire, Clinton “Bud” (Lil), Earl (Elsie), William (Laverne), Marlene (Don) Perrea and Elaine (John – living) Tupa.

Walter was born in 1927 and grew up in Cleveland and North Royalton, Ohio.

As North Royalton’s football halfback/fullback, he helped lead his team to their 1945 and 1946 league championships.  He received 11 varsity letters and was named “King of Sports.” He was an inductee of the North Royalton Sports Hall of Fame.

Walter wore many hats.  He was a tool and die maker, small business owner, realtor and salesman.  He was a volunteer member of Brecksville’s Fire Department for 16 years and served as a City Councilman for 8 years.  He was a member of many civic groups, serving as president for several of them, including the Brecksville Kiwanis Club.  He always made time to help others, whether a distant family member or a civic group needing a leader, he got involved and lent a hand.

Walter enjoyed stamp collecting, genealogy, fishing, golf and telling a good tale.  He was the family’s historian.

He and Ceil were founding members and strong supporters of St. Basil the Great Catholic Church. They raised their family in Brecksville, Ohio.  By example, their children were instilled with family values, a strong work ethic and love.

Family suggests contributions to St. Basil Liturgical Program, 8700 Brecksville Road, Brecksville, Ohio 44141.  FRIENDS MAY CALL AT THE DONALD A. FAULHABER FUNERAL HOME, 7915 Broadview Road (at Sprague) where services will be held on Tuesday, July 20 ^th at 9:30 a.m. and  at St. Basil Church at 10:00 a.m.  interment Brecksville Cemetery.

VISITING HOURS at the funeral home on Monday, July 19 ^th from 2 - 4 and 6 - 8.