Thomas Zimmer

Thomas W. Zimmer,79 of Lakeside Park, KY, died peacefully Saturday at his home. He was Dealer Principal of Zimmer Chrysler Jeep, formerly Mall Chrysler Jeep. He took over the dealership from his father, Ed Zimmer in 1958 and remained active in the business till his death.
He was a lifelong member of Blessed Sacrament parish, having attended grade school there. He graduated from St. Xavier High School, then attended Villa Madonna College presently Thomas More College after spending a year at Saint Bernard college in Cullman, Alabama. He served in the Army during the Korean War for two and a half years after graduating. He then attended Xavier College to earn his teaching certificate.
Tom enjoyed athletics his entire life, playing football, basketball, baseball, and volleyball during his school years, later coaching in youth leagues. His favorite sport was football, where he lettered in high school and was the reason for attending Saint Bernard, where he played junior college football. He later became a high school football referee for 25 years. His passion for golf started as a ten year old when he became a caddy at Devou Park golf course. He was a member of Summit Hills Country Club for 54 years.
After graduating he went to Saint John’s School in Delphos, Ohio where he taught History and started their football program. It was in Delphos that he met and married his wife, “Lou,” a fellow teacher. In 1958 he and Louella moved back to Northern Ky. to take over the auto dealership and start a family.
Tom was a leader in his industry, always focusing on customer service and value and operating with the highest ethics. He was elected Chairman of the Kentucky Automobile Dealers Association and served on the Board of Directors for many years. He helped establish the first “lemon” law in Ky. as well as the U-Drive-It tax system for auto leasing. He was elected to the Regional and National Chrysler Dealer Council and the Greater Cincinnati Advertising Board where he served for 10 years.
Tom was active in the community, serving on the board of Directors for Bishop Howard School, Willard Wade Y.M.C.A., Thomas More College, and the Diocesan Catholic Children’s Home for 12 years. He was a Knights of Columbus member and sponsor for local charities, churches and Boone County Parks.
Tom leaves behind his beloved wife, Louella H. Zimmer (nee Recker), sons Jim and John (Cathy), grandchildren Stefanie, Eric and Sarah. Beloved brother to Richard Zimmer and Susan Archambault.
Visitation will be Saturday September 24th, at St. Henry Church from 8:30am-10am. Mass will follow visitation at 10:00am. Burial will be private for family only at St. Mary Cemetery following the service. In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to: Diocesan Catholic Children’s Home PO Box 17007, 75 Orphanage Road Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017-0007.