Thomas J. Zimmer
November 23, 1932 - July 28, 2026

Thomas John Zimmer passed away peacefully on July 28, 2026, at the age of 93.

Tom was born in 1932 and raised in the Milwaukee area, where he attended St. Anne’s Elementary and Messmer High School. He proudly served four years in the United States Air Force during the Korean conflict before returning home to attend Marquette University, where he earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees in psychology and met the love of his life, his beloved wife, Sally. He remained a lifelong Marquette University basketball fan, attending home games for decades alongside his wife and college friends.

Tom spent the majority of his career as a child psychologist for Milwaukee Public Schools, guided by his firm belief that every child holds unlimited potential.

Above all, Tom was devoted to the people he loved. He was a supportive brother, uncle, and husband. As a young father, he coached his children's sports teams and cheered on every achievement, big or small. As a grandfather, he brought that same energy and joy, always present, engaged and delighted by his four grandchildren. He was an active member of St. Pius X parish, where he served on the church board and sang in the choir, before he and Sally moved to Sussex in 2001. There, he and Sally joined St. James Parish in nearby Menomonee Falls, where Tom sang in the choir for almost 20 years.

In retirement, Tom and Sally traveled widely together and with friends around the Midwest and beyond. Annual trips to Ireland were among their favorites — where Tom could always be found taking photographs, chatting with locals, and enjoying pub visits. He also gave generously of his time, volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, Irish Fest, and Sussex elementary schools, Maple Avenue and Woodside.

Tom was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Sarah "Sally" Zimmer (née Dinnen), his seven brothers and sisters and their spouses, and other extended family members. He is survived by his children, Kathleen Zimmer, Michael Zimmer, and Steven Zimmer (Krissy); and his grandchildren, Olivia, Brendan, Abraham, and Aidan.

Tom will be remembered for his big smile, his easygoing nature, and his deep, abiding love for his family and friends — a love that will never be forgotten.

Visitation will be Wednesday August 19, 2026 at St. James Catholic Church, W220N6588 Town Line Rd. in Menomonee Falls, from 9am until time of Mass at 11am. Inurnment to follow in the church cemetery after the Mass.

 

Visitation

Wednesday, August 19, 2026

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

St. James Catholic Church

W220N6588 Town Line Rd
Menomonee Falls, WI 53051
Phone: (262) 251-3630


Service

Wednesday, August 19, 2026

11:00 AM

St. James Catholic Church

W220N6588 Town Line Rd
Menomonee Falls, WI 53051
Phone: (262) 251-3630