Ivan Frank Zimmerman

Ivan Frank Zimmerman was born March 22, 1940 to Paul J. and Esther (Rippe) Zimmerman of Fairbury, NE and died peacefully at home surrounded by family on December 18, 2025 at the age of 85.

Ivan was an active member of Zion Countryside Church originally named Zion Evangelical and Reformed Church where he was also baptized and confirmed. On December 4, 1960 he married Arlene Louise Janssen. This union was blessed with three children by adoption Connie, Kevin, and Tim. Ivan and Arlene enjoyed being youth sponsors for many years. Ivan also served his church in many capacities through the years. He held nearly every position on Church Council, Cemetery Board, Sunday School Superintendent, and was a Sunday School Teacher for many years. He also enjoyed many years of singing in the church choir, only quitting because of his failing eyesight.

Ivan farmed for 46 years. Throughout his farming career he was always conscientious about Ag Conservation, earning him the Jefferson County Agriculture award in 2009. There were other community organizations that Ivan had an impact on. One such organization would be serving 35 years on the Blue Rivers Area Agency on Aging Governing Board. He was also a charter member for the Jefferson County Volunteer rural fire fighters.

While farming one day, Ivan had a dream. A dream for a church camp to be held at Camp Jefferson for children belonging to any denomination or not belonging to a church at all. A camp where they could come together to worship and love God and not have to be concerned about denominational differences. In 1997 his dreams came to fruition and five churches showed interest. This is where the name 5 Star Bible camp originated. The camp has grown considerably through the years bringing many children and adults to know and love Christ. Ivan always felt blessed by all of the help and support given to the camp by volunteers. He was so happy that the camp volunteers are planning for the 29th camp (would be 30th, but missed one year because of COVID). He was honored by the camp volunteers with a quilt made from the camp t-shirts from the first 16 years.

Ivan was elected a Jefferson County Commissioner in 1979 and served for 20 years. Ivan started working for Schultis & Son Auction Company in the late 1980's. He worked many years setting up auctions and also working during the auction until his health declined. He was a loyal employee. Ivan was a servant leader with a servant heart and never complained. "Well done thou good and faithful servant" Ivan was preceded in death by his parents, an infant son, Michael K. Zimmerman and son Kevin E. Zimmerman.

He is survived by his wife Arlene of 65 years. His children Connie (Barry) Schouboe of Fairbury, NE and Timothy (Amy) Zimmerman of Colorado Springs, CO. Grandchildren Ashlea Schouboe of LaVista, NE, Justin (Heather) Schultis of Fairbury, NE, Bryce (Brittany) Schouboe of Lincoln, NE, and Anna (RJ) O'Donnell of Marysville, KS. Great Grandchildren Elle and Bennett Schultis and Ryanne and Piper O'Donnell. Brother Richard P. Zimmerman, nieces and nephews and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, Dec 23 at 1:30 pm at Zion Countryside Church near Gladstone. Family will greet friends on Monday evening from 5-7 pm at Gerdes-Meyer Funeral Home in Fairbury, NE. Interment will be in the Zion Countryside Cemetery. A memorial has been established to the 5 Star Bible Camp. Gerdes-Meyer Funeral is assisting with arrangements.