Walter Leo Zimmermann

Walter Leo Zimmermann, 82, of Manchester, died September 14, 2024, after a period of declining health.

Born in Newark, NJ on July 31, 1942, Walter was raised in New Providence, NJ, the only son of Leo and Johanna (Schlecht) Zimmermann, both originally from Germany. He was employed by Southern New Hampshire University (formerly New Hampshire College) for more than forty years, first as Registrar and then as a full time Professor of Psychology. He and his wife, Christine, gave a great deal of their lives to the NHC/SNHU community and both created scholarships in their names at SNHU. 

Walter graduated from New Providence High School in 1960 and from Springfield College in 1964. Since Christine was a year behind him at Springfield, he chose to continue his education and earn a Masters’ degree. During this time, he worked in the Registrar’s office at Springfield College which started his path to NHC/SNHU.

Walter and Christine were married in August of 1966 and started their life together in New Jersey. In 1969, after Walter was offered a position at New Hampshire College (now SNHU), they decided to make the move to Manchester, NH where they raised their family and established strong roots in the community. 

Walter was a great son, husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He was loyal, smart, and funny with a very dry wit. He often joked that after he passed, his ashes could be incorporated with a dam and a plaque could read, “Here lies Walter Zimmermann. He gave a damn; he is a dam”. He was a great listener and would often be found sitting in his living room listening patiently and dispensing guidance to family and friends while they sat on “the magic couch”. 

For over forty years, he enjoyed summer vacations with his family at Newfound Lake where he made lifelong friendships. Walter also spent countless years visiting Ogunquit, ME with his wife Christine. After retirement, he went to Foxwoods Casino and played video poker, played Solitaire on the computer, and did the daily crossword puzzle.

Walter is predeceased by his wife Christine (Ray) Zimmermann who passed away in 2008.

He is survived by his three daughters, Johanna Nichols and husband Carl Nichols Jr of Manchester, NH; Karen Ruzicka and husband Dana Ruzicka of Londonderry, NH; and Margery Zimmermann of Kennebunk, ME. He also leaves behind three grandchildren, Lauren Herbert; Kaitlyn Ruzicka; and TJ Ruzicka, along with one great-grandchild, Samara Ruzicka-Tong. 

The family would like to thank Hanover Hill Healthcare who cared for Walter over the last three years. 

At the request of Walter, no formal services will be held. Those wishing to recognize Walter’s passing, please consider contributing to the Walter Zimmermann Scholarship Fund at Southern New Hampshire University or another charity of your choice.