Orel Zimmerman

Orel Zimmerman, 77, of Randall, passed away Friday, November 5, 2010 at his home surrounded by his family. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM, Monday, November 8, 2010 at St. James Catholic Church in Randall with Father Leo Moenkedick officiating. Family and friends are invited to gather from 3-5 PM on Sunday afternoon at the Brenny Funeral Chapel in Randall. Interment will take place at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery near Camp Ripley.

Orel was born May 23, 1933 in Green Prairie Township, MN, the son of Albert and Mae (Hagen) Zimmerman. He has lived in the area all of his life. At the age of 16, Orel joined the National Guard where he dedicated 44 years of his life. He spent time in Europe on active duty; and then as an administrative specialist inspecting units across Minnesota; and finally, serving as a small arms inspector until retirement.

Orel was proud of his home and enjoyed taking care of the yard. He loved his family; they were what he cherished most. Playing pool, cards, and shaking dice with family and friends were his favorite pastimes. He will be remembered for his patience, honesty, inner strength and his patriotism.

He will be missed by his wife of 54 years, Genevieve; his daughters, Cindy (Scott) Parish, Michelle (Brian) Fenske, Laureen (Scott) Fenske, and Mary Zimmerman (Greg Shahade); his grandchildren, Shannon and Amanda, Billy and Corey, Danielle and Trevor; his sisters, Evelyn Helmerick and Bertha Sanders; his brothers, Maynard and Melvin (Laurine); and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his grandson, Zachary; and his brother, Wilbur.