Richard L. Zimmerman, 81, of State College, passed away Friday, December 17, 2021, at home.
Born on November 6, 1940, in Houtzdale, PA, he was the son of the late Dorothy E. Zimmerman and his stepfather, William R. Ibberson. Richard was raised by his grandparents, the late Lester and Cora Zimmerman, “The greatest grandparents on this earth.” On September 15,1989 Richard married his wife of 32 years, Sue Lane Dawson-Zimmerman, who survives.
In addition to his wife Sue Lane, Richard is survived by a stepson, Shane Dawson (Maricris), his stepdaughter, Shawney Shawver (Lonny); brother, James L. Ibberson, (Sandy), sister, Delores Ferdarko (Robert), sister, Connie Ferdarko (Michael), a sister in-law, Ellen Ibberson, and his grandchildren, Keegan Intorre, Kayleigh Intorre and Gaven Dawson. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, mother, stepfather, and brother William Roy Ibberson, Jr.
Richard graduated from Moshannon Valley High School in 1958. After working several jobs, he joined the U.S. Air Force in 1962. He was trained as a nuclear weapons specialist, assigned to MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida. Before the Cuban crisis began, he loaded some of the first weapons for that military event. He was later assigned to the 555th Tactical Squadron, known as the Triple Nickle, and was deployed to Okinawa as the Vietnam War was breaking out. He and his squadron loaded some of the first weapons for that war as well. Richard loved his military career and all of his experiences. He made of lot of good friends during his four years of service, many that he continued to keep in touch with. After being honorably discharged in 1966, he began working for PennDOT. He was involved with various projects building roads and bridges, eventually working his way to management, which put him in charge of many large road construction projects throughout the years. He retired from PennDOT in 1999; but, continued to work as a consultant until his final retirement in 2010.
During the winter months, Richard spent time at their home in Tavares, FL, and enjoyed spending time during the summer months camping in Lewistown, PA. In his spare time, Richard loved telling stories and jokes, was an avid reader, liked playing golf with his work buddies and grandson, hunting, fishing, spending time outdoors and doing home projects. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his friends, family and his two dogs Baby and Tucker. Tucker remained by his side until his passing.
Services and burial will be private at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please send a memorial contribution to a charity of your choice.