03/05/2026
Ralph Herbert Zimmerman, Sr. Obituary
Ralph Herbert Zimmerman, Sr. passed away peacefully in the arms of Jesus on November 20, 2025 in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
Born on July 2, 1930 in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Ralph was a beloved son, husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He touched the lives of many with his profound sense of humor, warmth, support, curiosity, honesty and outgoing nature. Ralph had the uncanny ability to connect with just about anyone. He possessed an empathetic heart, disarming wit, and a love for life that was infectious. Ralph had the rare gift to build community wherever he found himself.
Ralph graduated in 1948 from New Brunswick High School in New Jersey. He attended Rutgers University where he majored in Accounting. Ralph was proud to have served in the U.S. Navy
during the Korean War and served aboard the USS Monrovia - a class attack transport ship. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal (NDSM) and the Navy Occupation Service
Medal (NOSM). Ralph pursued an Accounting career at Johnson & Johnson in New Brunswick, New Jersey. Eventually he transitioned to his true calling in retail sales where he worked for Sears Roebuck & Co, Kennedy’s and eventually retired from Barney’s in New York City.
Ralph’s hobbies and interests helped define who he was. He enjoyed dancing, going to Broadway plays, all types of music concerts, travelling - especially the beach and exploring new
and his favorite restaurants. But his real passion was sports - particularly the NFL football.
Ralph proudly followed in his father’s footsteps as one of the New York Giants biggest and most enduring fans. Win or lose, he always wore his Giants sweatshirt and cap with pride.
Ralph was predeceased by his father, Roy and his mother, Phoebe; his loving wife, Ilona of 50 years; step-son Richard, and granddaughter Robin.
He is survived by immediate family members: his sister, Beverly; sons, Ralph and his wife Sue and Rod and his wife Mirian; daughter, Deborah and her husband Bud; step-daughter Gayle; step-son Ronald and his wife Prudence; a nephew, Jay and niece, Cathy and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as Cassie the family dog, and many friends who will miss him dearly.
You are invited to Ralph’s Celebration of Life on Sunday, March 22nd at Rezem Funeral Home in East Brunswick, New Jersey from 1PM to 3PM. A graveside burial service with a blessing from St. Thomas Church of Old Bridge, NJ and Military Honors will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery in East Brunswick, New Jersey on March 23rd at 10AM.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Ralph's favorite charity: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
We find comfort in knowing that Ralph’s legacy lives on through the lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever. He is always the bright light in our hearts.
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