David Louis Zimmer's Obituary
On April 8, 2026, David Louis Zimmer of Tucson, Arizona, went home to be with the Lord at the age of 73. He was the beloved husband of Cheryl D. (Van Hart) Zimmer with whom he shared nearly 29 years in marriage.
David Louis Zimmer entered this world on March 17, 1953, on Guam in the Mariana Islands, to Robert Louis Zimmer and Jean Elaine (Leese) Zimmer. To share the news, his parents sent a telegram to their families; because of the International Date Line, it reached the family in the United States on March 16.
David was the oldest of five siblings, all of whom are living: Debra Zimmer, Bobbi Zimmer, and James Zimmer, all of Tucson, Arizona, and William Zimmer of Gulfport, Florida.
David is survived by his wife, Cheryl D. (Van Hart) Zimmer; his daughter, Cheyenne White (stationed in England); and five grandchildren: Luke Morgan, Blaine Hadley, Harlee Mae, Kade Rhett, and Ridge Joy. He was preceded in death by his son, Morgan David Zimmer (March 30, 2026); his mother, Jean (September 25, 1996); and his father, Robert (August 15, 2014).
David and his parents left Guam in 1954, moving stateside to Washington and then down the coast to California, where they lived for eight years. In 1962, the family moved to the Tucson area. David attended grade school in Red Rock before the family settled in Tucson, where he attended Harelson School and graduated from Amphitheater High School in 1971.
He moved to Ann Arbor, Michigan, and lived there for a few years. Dave had his classic long brown hair and once someone in a grocery store asked if he was Bob Seger. It didn’t take him long to know that he didn’t like the long cold winters in Michigan, subsequently moving back to Tucson, where he remained until his death.
David loved Jesus, Cheryl, his children and grandchildren, the Zimmer family, and his church family. He served his church in many capacities as a board member, usher, serving communion, and general repairs. Much of the drywall and finishing work was completed by none other than “Super Dave,” the name by which many church members affectionately knew him.
David’s life’s work revolved around drywall, beginning as a hanger shortly after high school and progressing into a finisher. Many buildings around Tucson feature his craftsmanship. When driving around the city, he would often point to a building and say, “I did the drywall in that building,” and then tell Cheryl when it was done and for whom he was working. In later years, he focused on repairs and finishing work in homes. Every wall and ceiling in our home benefited from David’s expertise, leaving a legacy of his skill that surrounds Cheryl with his love and care.
He worked at the Gem and Mineral Show for several years, shuttling attendees between the parking lot and the event by golf cart. He enjoyed meeting people from around the world and sharing his classic one-liners. On February 2, as everyone talked about Punxsutawney Phil and his shadow, Dave would joke that Tucson had its own version—a ground squirrel named “Tucson Alvin”—often timed perfectly as a squirrel crossed their path. It became a recurring joke that brought laughs during his transports.
He enjoyed watching Jeopardy, often able to answer many of the answers with the correct question. In retirement, David enjoyed doing jigsaw puzzles and a quiet game of solitaire with cards from time to time. David and Cheryl enjoyed road trips throughout the year. These trips brought them great joy and created beautiful memories for Cheryl to cherish.
David will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
There will be a Celebration of Life service May 2, 2026, at 12:30 pm held at Calvary Assembly of God, 4540 S. Tucson Estates Parkway, Tucson, AZ
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Calvary AG, “Calvary Building Fund: Hall & Playground Upgrade”, honoring Dave’s legacy in the construction industry. Add a note referencing Dave. A QR code is provided for your convenience.
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