ZIMMER: Gary Elmer
Posted By On August 25, 2025 @ 12:00 AM In Dashwood,Exeter,Obituary | 10 Comments
In Loving Memory of Gary Zimmer
Gary Zimmer passed away peacefully at home in Grand Bend on Monday, August 25, 2025 in his 85th year.
Gary followed a proud family tradition, becoming a commercial fisherman like his father, Elmer Zimmer, his uncle Stewart (Louie) Ravelle, and his great-grandfather Joseph Ravelle. In the days when Grand Bend’s fishing industry thrived, Gary worked diligently alongside others in the community. One of their fish houses stood where the Grand Bend Yacht Club is today, and their boats, the Mary R. and the W.H. Wheeler, were moored nearby. Gary was known for his dedication and strong work ethic. He was an excellent swimmer which came in handy when he had to untangle a fish net from the boat’s propeller.
Beyond his career, Gary was a devoted son and caregiver, lovingly supporting his parents, Elmer and Verna (Ravelle) Zimmer, in their later years both at home and during winters in Florida. He had a gentle heart, especially for animals, adopting stray cats and turtles over the years. His passions included history, the natural world, solving puzzles, and fast cars – having owned a Barracuda and a Cougar, as well as a motorcycle in his younger days. These interests reflected his quiet, curious but also fun nature. He also appreciated the value of a dollar.
Gary will be deeply missed by his sister Sylvia, brother-in-law Ray Beierling, and his niece and nephews: David Beierling (Wanda), Chris Beierling, and Shari and Paul Rankin.
A Private family graveside service will be held at the Pinery Cemetery, Grand Bend. In honour of Gary’s love for animals and nature, donations to causes supporting animal welfare or land preservation are warmly welcomed. Arrangement entrusted to T. Harry Hoffman & Sons Funeral Home, Dashwood.
Condolences for the family of “ZIMMER: Gary Elmer”
Dear Sylvia and family. I am saddened to learn of Gary’s passing. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Evelyn (Zimmer) Huston
Our condolences to the Families involved ! It’s the circle of Guys
at the Tim Horton,s getting smaller !
Martin. /. Lia. Vandenberk .
Sylvia, my sincere condolences to you and the rest of your family.
Sylvia, and Ray,
May your faith and love of family and friends comfort you in this time of sorrow. Thinking of you, and holding you close with my prayers,
Dorothy Stephen
Sylvia and Ray
Sorry to hear of Gary’s passing. Deepest condolences to you and your family.
Ruth McCorquodale
My sweet neighbour for over 30 years. I will miss our garden chats & your wonderful stories. Rest in peace Gary.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Sylvia and family and friends of Gary. He was a large part of Grand Bend history.
Karn Durdin and Don Thornton
Sylvia and Ray
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Please accept our deepest condolences.
Doug and Jill MacLaine
Gary was also a roller skater. In the winter when the old London Arena still stood he would take off in the Barracuda and on a few occasions Peter Gill and I would to ride along with him. Gary and I talked whenever we saw one another, usually grocery shopping.
I admit to be a lousy tracker of heredity but we both knew we were in some way related as my grandmother was Mary Ravelle.
Someone described Gary as a kind and gentle soul, they were absolutely correct. Rest in Peace Gary.
Kyle Harrison
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Sylvia, Ray and family
Sincere sympathy in your great loss. His legacy will live on in each of you.