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Warren C. "Skip" Zimmerman, age 65, of Lindstrom, Minn., passed away peacefully and unexpectedly early March 6, 2007. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and dear friend.

Warren was born June 7, 1941, in Briton, North Dakota, to parents David and Edith (Van Winkle) Zimmerman.

Skip was a kind and generous man and will be missed by all who knew and loved him. He was a founding member and lead singer for the country western band "Merle and the Dudes."

A great horse lover, Skip was well-known and respected as an owner and breeder of fine quality, competitive horses. As an owner of many "winners" he shared his knowledge and success.

Skip established and successfully owned and operated Galaxy Mechanical for over 30 years. He was a longstanding member of Plumbers Local #15, American Quarter Horse Association, Minnesota Quarter Horse Racing Association-long time member and President in 1984, and a member of Elim Lutheran Church of Scandia.

He is preceded in death by his parents, seven siblings: "Bud" Marvin Zimmerman, Jane Campbell, "Sonny" Byron Zimmerman, Bette Walker, Glen Zimmerman, Cleo Jobes and Hazel Nash.

Skip is survived by his wife, Vivian; children: Darcy (Paul) Burzynski, Darin (Mary) Zimmerman, and Sharna (Darren) Braucks; grandchildren: Jesse Gerard, Bret Zimmerman, Bradley Zimmerman and Sanora Braucks; siblings: Lila Hedlund, Keith Zimmerman and David Zimmerman; stepchildren: Marshelle (Brad) Bittner, Kristi (Todd) Stevens, Ron (Michelle) Greenmyer, Todd (Jessica) Greenmyer, & Marlene (Jay) Stroh; 24 step-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Funeral service 11 a.m., Saturday March 10, 2007, at Elim Lutheran Church in Scandia. Visitation 5-8 p.m., Friday, at Grandstrand Funeral Home in Lindstrom, and one hour prior to service at church. Interment at Old Sargent Cemetery, in Cogswell, North Dakota.

Arrangements by the Grandstrand Funeral Home, in Lindstrom, 651-257-4000.

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