Southwest High School Football Coach Merlin Edward Zimmer Dies At, 88, Survived By Wife Carolyn, Son, Zachary And Granddaughter Zoey

Zimmer enjoyed the monthly lunches at Barley's with his West High treasured friends and had fond memories of his "Dear Old West High."

July 15, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on July 15, 2026

Football coach Merlin Edward Zimmer from Green Bay went to his eternal rest on Saturday.

Merlin Edward Zimmer, aka Tuf, Tuffy, or Zim, was a 1955 graduate of Green Bay West High School, where he played varsity football for three years during their championship years.

He and served as treasurer for the reunions of the West High Class of 1955.

Zimmer enjoyed the monthly lunches at Barley’s with his West High treasured friends and had fond memories of his “Dear Old West High.”

A graduate of Winona State College, he went on to teach mathematics at Wrightstown High School, Franklin and Lombardi Junior High Schools, and Southwest High School in Green Bay.

He was a member of Peace Lutheran Church and Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, where he served on the council at both, was active on the building and grounds committee and the long-range planning committee, and also served as an usher and greeter.

Involved in the Hobart community where he lived, he was a volunteer firefighter for over twenty years, serving a term as safety officer. He was also a member of the site review committee there.

Former Varsity Football Player Merlin Edward Zimmer Died At The Age Of 88

Merlin Edward Zimmer, a former varsity football player at Green Bay West High School, tragically died on Saturday, July 12, 2026, at 88.

However, the exact cause of death has not been officially mentioned.

Joe Cousineau, a of the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, took to his Facebook handle and announced the tragic news. He wrote,

Merlin Edward Zimmer passed away at 88. (Source: )

Other close ones and relatives have also poured their heartfelt condolences and sent prayers to Zimmer’s family to stay strong in this heartbreaking moment.

Zimmer will always be remembered for his unforgettable contributions as a varsity football player at Green Bay West High School and as a coach at Southwest High School.

According to his family, friends may call at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 2736 Glendale Avenue, Howard, Wisconsin, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 19, 2026.

The will take place at 11:00 a.m., with the Rev. Jennifer Fite officiating.

Entombment will be at the Fort Howard Mausoleum at a later date.

Instead of flowers, a memorial fund will be established to support children with illnesses or disabilities, such as Life Striders (Waukesha, WI), CP (Green Bay), or the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (Brookfield, WI).

Rest in Peace, Merlin Edward Zimmer.

Merlin Edward Zimmer Had One Son With His Wife, Carolyn Schlottman

Merlin Edward Zimmer was married to Carolyn Schlottman on Saturday, April 1, 1972, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Boyceville, Wisconsin.

The couple enjoyed golfing and also collaborated on woodworking projects in their shop.

Although Carolyn stayed away from the media spotlight, she always supported Merlin in balancing his personal and professional life.

Sadly, their married life ended after 53 years following the tragic death of Merlin. Friends have poured their heartfelt condolences and prayers to Carolyn to stay strong.

Merlin Edward Zimmer’s son Zachary Zimmer is a 2nd Lieutenant. (Source: )

The couple was blessed with one son, Zachary Zimmer, who has been married to Cheryl Zimmer.

According to the , Zachary and Cheryl share a daughter named Zoey Zimmer.

Zachary’s official handle showcases that he graduated from Florida Southern College in 2015. He is serving as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army.

In Case You Didn’t Know

• Carolyn Schlottman was born to her parents, Richard and Arvilla Schlottman. She grew up with her sister Trish Schlottman.
• Merlin is also survived by his one sister, Karlene Butrymowicz.
• He enjoyed driving around in his convertibles, especially his 1957 Chevrolet.

• Check other Articles on

Rohit Maharjan is a skilled content writer and editor, known for his expertise in crafting engaging and informative written pieces. Beyond his professional work, Rohit is also a passionate musician, dedicating his free time to playing the guitar and creating melodious tunes.

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