Terrence Martin (Terry) Zimmerman, age 70, of Tallahassee, died on Tuesday, May 23, in Seattle, Wa., after a courageous battle with cancer. Terry was born in Youngstown, Oh., where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry from Youngstown State University, and met and married his wife, a fellow chemist, in 1969. Terry then moved to Tallahassee to pursue graduate studies at Florida State University, earning a Master of Science Degree in Education.
Terry always loved the outdoors and water and discovered the excitement of scuba diving in Florida. He was a certified scuba diving instructor and a dive shop-owner for 13 years. He then decided to apply his diving instructor experience to the classroom as a chemistry instructor for Taylor County High School. While at TCHS, Terry became interested in environmental education. He collaborated with colleagues to develop an integrated math, English and environmental science curriculum that was recognized at both the state and national levels for its excellence.
Terry later transitioned from TCHS to teaching physical science and chemistry at North Florida Community College. At NFCC he was the club sponsor of the Sentinel Rocketeers and also held rocket workshops for elementary and middle school students. Upon retiring from NFCC, Terry continued his interest in rocketry and education as a mentor for the FAMU Diamondbacks to compete in NASA's University Student Launch Initiative. In addition to enjoying rocketry, Terry also loved fireworks. He delighted in spending retirement time working with the Florida Pyrotechnics Arts Guild and learning about the chemistry and art-form of fireworks making.
In addition to teaching and his hobbies, Terry also enjoyed sharing his love of the outdoors with his children and others. Terry spent two summers camping with his family in national parks throughout the US. He was also an Eagle Scout and volunteered to serve as an Assistant Scout Leader with the Boy Scouts of America Troop 118, going on innumerable campouts, hikes, and canoeing expeditions with the scouts.
Terry is survived by Carol Zimmerman, his loving wife of 47 years; children, Travis Zimmerman (Marino Pecorino) and Jackie Zimmerman; his siblings, Carol Jean Zimmerman (Steve Hatch), Brian Zimmerman (Rhonda), Mark Zimmerman (Diane) and Lori Backlund (Terry), and their families.
A Funeral Mass will be held at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church on June 23rd at 10 a.m. A Celebration of Life will be held that evening beginning at 6 p.m. in the church hall. Please join us to share memories.
In lieu of flowers, a contribution in his honor may be made to the Boy Scouts of America or the National Parks Conservation Association or a charity of your choice. Please see the Harvey Funeral Home guestbook (harveyfuneral.com) for more details about the Celebration of Life and Terry’s life.