Don Zimmerman

Don Zimmerman was born on July 6, 1941, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to George W. and Edith C. Zimmerman. Although his mother hoped he’d arrive on the 4th of July, he made his appearance two days later. Don grew up with his sister in California, but his family moved frequently due to his father's work. Eventually, they settled in Littleton, Colorado, where his father built a motel. Don graduated from Sheridan Union High School. In 1960, Don enlisted in the Air Force with a friend, hoping to become an airplane engineer. However, he was assigned to the paint shop, where his creativity shone. He quickly rose through the ranks thanks to his innovative idea of inspecting turbine propellers for corrosion. 

After serving for four years and earning an honorable discharge, Don used the GI Bill to attend several universities, including Florida State University, the University of Maryland, and the University of Montana. He ultimately earned a master’s degree in education from Colorado State University. Don had a varied career, from teaching psychology to renovating properties. His passion for learning and entrepreneurial spirit led him to pursue many interests, including purchasing and renovating real estate, owning a business, and working in education. In the late 1970s, after a personal transition, Don embarked on a new chapter, focusing on his career and entrepreneurship. He spent time in Alaska, teaching and building housing for fellow teachers. His resilience and determination were evident throughout his life, especially after surviving a serious car accident in 1986, from which he recovered with characteristic tenacity.

In the early 2000s, Don’s adventurous spirit took him to New Zealand, where he met his future wife, Corinna, at his 61st birthday party. The couple shared a deep connection and soon married. Together, they moved to Ruidoso, New Mexico, in 2006, where they built their dream home after seven years of living in a camper trailer. Don and Corinna also purchased White Mountain Pottery, where Don encouraged and supported Corinna's artistic endeavors. 

Throughout his life, Don was known for his generosity, warm heart, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He had a lifelong love of learning, reading, and writing, with particular interests in philosophy, economics, and psychology. Though he never finished his self-help book inspired by his military experiences, his insights into life and problem-solving nature left a lasting impact on those who knew him. Don enjoyed hiking, working out, and especially golf, a sport that resonated with his disciplined and active approach to life. He is remembered for his kindness, passion for learning, and unwavering support for those around him. 

Don passed away at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of love, friendship, and intellectual curiosity, and is survived by his beloved wife, Corinna, niece Lisa Richter, and nephew Robby Ring.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, October 5, 2024 at 2:00 pm at LaGrone Funeral Chapel of Ruidoso. A reception will follow.  

“We are what we are devoted to, and what we are devoted to is what motivates our conduct” - Erich Fromm