Sergeant Michael J. Zimmerman's watch ended July 3, 2025, after a courageous 18-month battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) at the age of 70. Mike was born on September 7, 1954, to Steven and Anna Zimmerman in Syracuse, NY. Mike grew up in Akron and was a proud 1972 graduate of Archbishop Hoban High School. He was blessed to have his three children, two of their spouses and his oldest grandson graduate from there with a remaining grandson due to graduate in 2027.
Mike served proudly with the Akron Police Department, retiring as a Gang Unit Sergeant in 2011 with 34 years served. He was known for his dedication to the community and his commitment to upholding the law.
He married Gayle (Kyle) on September 17, 1977. They raised three children, Tim, Erin, and Adam. Affectionately known by his grandchildren as BoBo, you could find he and Gayle on any given weekend at a baseball field, gymnasium, dance competition or gymnastic meet cheering them on from the sidelines. He loved to play golf, eat great barbecue and watch a ball game.
Mike is survived by his wife of 47 years, Gayle, children Tim (Alyssa), Erin (Manny) and Adam (Niki). Six grandchildren whom he loved very much, Zachary, Jack, Landyn, Layni, Vinny and Frankie. Siblings Kathy (Michael) Hausch, Maureen (Daniel) Lott, sister-in-law Colleen Williams, brother-in-law Marty (Jody) Kyle and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Calling hours will be held at Anthony Funeral Home located at 1990 S. Main St. Akron, OH on Wednesday, July 9 from 5 to 7 P.M.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Sacred Heart of Jesus located at 260 Broad St., Wadsworth, OH on Thursday July 10th at 11 A.M. Private burial to take place at a later date.
The family would like to take this time to thank nurses Jen and Cheri and social worker Julia for their compassionate and loving care of Mike while in hospice. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Mike's name to the ALS Association or Hospice of the Western Reserve.
"10-42, Sergeant Zimmerman Signing Off"
Anthony Funeral Home - Akron Chapel
Anthony Funeral Home - Akron Chapel
Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church
Holy Cross Cemetery Akron
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