William C. Zimmer

Olean-William (Bill) Zimmer of Olean passed away Thursday (November 10, 2022) in Olean General Hospital after a brief illness.

Born April 29, 1956, to Warren and Corinne Zimmer, Bill grew up in Delevan.  He served in the US Army from 1974-1976, after which he moved to Olean in 1980 and began his 20-year career driving tractor-trailer for Stroehmann’s Bakery.  Bill drove for over One Million safe miles, proudly achieving Million-Miler status with the company.  A true hero, on one snowy overnight haul he observed a house chimney on fire and was able to awaken and safely rescue a family of four from their burning home.  He received annual thank-you cards at Christmas from that grateful family for many years to come.

Bill was a life-long fan of the music of Jackson Browne and Bruce Springsteen. He loved watching his Buffalo Bills and Boston Red Sox. He was an avid woodworker throughout his life and also enjoyed putting together model cars. He was a true jack-of-all-trades.

Pre-deceased by his parents, Bill is survived by his sons Brandon (Brittany Elliott) of Olean and Dustin Zimmer of Cheektowaga, grandsons Maverick and Cole Zimmer of Olean, brothers Bob (Evy) Zimmer of the Philippines, Dave Zimmer of Tampa, John (Cindy) Zimmer of San Diego, Mike Zimmer of Olean, sisters Maureen (Ernie) Bachert of Delevan and Ann (Patrick) Murphy of East Concord.  He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews as well as his cherished friend of more than 40 years, Rex Rogers of Olean.

Upon Bill’s request, there will be no formal visitation.  Online condolences can be expressed at www.guentherfh.com