Rev. Gerald E. ‘Gerry’ Zimmerman, ‘A Man of Faith’

OLEAN — Rev. Gerald E. “Gerry” Zimmerman, of Lauren Street, passed away peacefully Friday (Jan. 9, 2026), leaving behind a legacy of compassion, service and unwavering dedication to his faith, family and community.

Gerry was born March 6, 1952, in Springville, the beloved son of Emil and Mildred L. Nason Zimmerman. On Dec. 9, 1988, at Bethany Lutheran Church, he married the love of his life, Linda M. Edstrom. Their marriage of 37 years was one rooted in deep love, shared purpose and steadfast devotion. Linda survives him, carrying forward the love and partnership they built together.

A 1969 graduate of West Valley Central High School, Gerry devoted his life to learning and service. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Canisius College, a master’s degree in community counseling from St. Bonaventure University, and, fulfilling a lifelong calling, a master’s degree in divinity from United Lutheran Seminary in May 2023.

His journey to the ministry was one of faith, perseverance and patience, answering a calling that had been in his heart for over 50 years.

Gerry began his professional career with Cattaraugus County in 1986 and retired in 2019 after 33 years of dedicated service, having risen to the position of director of Cattaraugus County probation. His work was marked by integrity, leadership and a genuine concern for the people he served. Immediately following retirement, he entered seminary, finally embracing the ministry that had long been his dream.

He was ordained in 2023 and became pastor of Bethel Lutheran Church in Portville and Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in Wellsville. Even after receiving a cancer diagnosis, Gerry continued to serve with strength and faith, embodying his deep commitment to God and his congregations.

Although illness forced him to resign from Shepherd of the Valley at the end of 2023, he continued faithfully as pastor of Bethel Lutheran Church for as long as he was able. Before his ordination, he lovingly served both churches as their vicar.

Gerry was a passionate activist and advocate for justice throughout his life. He was deeply involved in the coalition addressing the West Valley Nuclear Waste, and his commitment to civic responsibility never wavered. He was a founding and former member of the New York Probation Officers Association, served as CSCA union president, and dedicated 14 years to the Olean School Board. His life was a testament to standing up for others and working tirelessly for the greater good.

A man of many talents, Gerry was a master basket weaver and chair caner, finding beauty and purpose in craftsmanship. He loved playing cards, especially bridge, and found joy in the arts as a thespian, performing in productions with the Springville and Salamanca Community Theaters and the Olean Theater Workshop. His creativity, humor and warmth touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Gerry is survived by his loving wife, Linda; his cherished daughter, Martha E. (Brooks Denton) Zimmerman of Amherst; his siblings, Beverly (James) Spross of West Valley and Carl D. Zimmerman of Cuba; his nieces, Mary (Justin) Vallon of New York City and Katherine (Bill) Coyer; his nephew, Gregory Spross of West Valley; brother-in-law, Ralph Gattuso; his dear friend, Bobby McClain; and several great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom he loved deeply.

He was predeceased by his parents, Emil and Mildred Zimmerman; and by his sister-in-law, Joan Gattuso.

Gerry will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his fierce advocacy for justice, his devotion to his faith and the deep love he held for his family and community. His life was a living sermon of compassion, courage, and service, and his memory will continue to inspire all who were blessed to walk beside him.

Friends will be received from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday (Jan. 17, 2026) at Bethany Lutheran Church, 6 Leo Moss Drive, Olean, at which time a funeral service will be held. The Rev. Mark Swanson, pastor of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Ellicottville, will be the presider and Bishop Lee M. Miller II will preach.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Bethel Lutheran Church at 79 Brooklyn St., Portville, NY, 14770; Bethany Lutheran Church at 6 Leo Moss Drive, Olean, NY, 14760; or to a charity of the donor’s choosing.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc., 646 E. State St., Olean.

Online condolences may be made at www.letromcintoshspinkfuneralhome.com.