Michael Edward Zimmer

January 29, 1960 – July 19, 2026

Michael Edward Zimmer, age 66, passed away peacefully at his home on July 19, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Mike was born on January 29, 1960, in Rochester, Minnesota, to Edward Zimmer and Rita Heusinkveld. A lifelong resident of Spring Valley, he graduated from Spring Valley High School in 1980. On July 4, 1980, Mike was united in marriage to the love of his life, Debbie Marr, in Spring Valley. Together, they built a beautiful life centered on family, service, and deep community roots.

For the past five years, Mike faced a courageous battle with colon cancer. He approached his illness with the same resilience, strength, and quiet determination that defined his entire life, never letting it dampen his spirit or his love for those around him. 

A natural protector and caregiver, Mike dedicated his professional and personal life to helping others. He retired from the Mayo Clinic after 25 years. His passion for his community was evident through his extensive involvement as a retired member of both the Wykoff and Spring Valley Fire Departments. He’s been a certified EMT for more than 35 years, serving the Spring Valley community with the Spring Valley Ambulance. He also shared his wealth of knowledge as an instructor for Southeast EMS, helping to train the next generation of first responders.

Mike’s dedication to youth and community extended far beyond emergency services. He served on the Kingsland School Board for many years, was actively involved in 4-H Shooting Sports, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. Above all, he was his children’s biggest fan, stepping into any coaching position available just to ensure he was right there on the sidelines cheering them on.

When he wasn’t serving his community, Mike loved being outdoors. He was an avid fisherman who cherished annual fishing trips with his close friends. He and Deb loved to travel, creating unforgettable memories together, especially on their many cruises. However, his absolute greatest joy in life was his family, and he treasured every moment spent as a proud grandfather.

Mike is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Debbie Zimmer; his children: Logan (Stephanie) Zimmer, Morgan (Anthony) Klomps, and Regan (Justin) Lonien; and his adored grandchildren: Alexis, Mason, Charli, Kyler, Kimber, Loralai, and Alaina. He is also survived by his Uncle Ron and his cousins Kyle, Ryan, Nikki, John, and Marianne, along with many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Edward Zimmer and Rita Heusinkveld, his grandparents, his sister Holly, his Uncle Dave, and his Aunt LaVerna.

The Zimmer family wishes to extend a heartfelt, special thank you to the Mayo Clinic Oncology Team and Mayo Clinic Hospice for their compassionate care, as well as to the dear friends who were always there for late-night phone calls and fishing trips.

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 4-7 p.m. at Bluff Brothers Brewery in Spring Valley, Minnesota. Family, friends and community members are invited to gather, share memories and raise a glass to honor a life well-lived.