Martha J. (Chismire) Zimmer

In Loving Memory of Martha “Marty” June Zimmer
June 11, 1938 – December 10, 2025

Martha “Marty” June Zimmer, born to Martha (Kretzler) and Joseph Chismire in Baden, PA, lived a life marked by warmth, kindness, and a deep, steady faith.

In her early adulthood, Marty entered into a brief first marriage, during which she welcomed her oldest daughter, Lizabeth Darroch. Years later, her life took a beautiful new turn when friends arranged a blind date with Lloyd Zimmer. One evening of dancing at a Christmas party changed everything. When Marty later appeared in Lloyd’s kitchen and created a delicious lunch from a nearly empty refrigerator, he realized he had found someone truly extraordinary. He soon proposed—and the two began a love story that lasted more than 60 wonderful years.

After marrying, Lloyd and Marty settled in Kennedy Township, where they welcomed two more daughters, Laura and Heidi. Their home was full of laughter, music, and the aroma of pies, cookies, and savory dinners. Family adventures filled their years—visits with relatives across the country, trips to amusement parks, and countless meaningful moments shared together. Marty also worked part-time as an executive secretary while Lloyd built his career in production at KDKA-TV.

When their daughters were grown and Lloyd retired, they began a new chapter in the Tampa, Florida area. There, they found a joyful community of amateur musicians and spent some of their happiest years singing, dancing, and making music with dear friends. Later in life, Marty and Lloyd lived in Scottsdale, AZ with Laura and her husband Joel before ultimately returning to Pittsburgh—always “home” in their hearts.

Marty is survived by her devoted husband of six decades, Lloyd Zimmer; her three daughters: Liz (Darroch) Crivelli and husband Philip, Laura (Zimmer) Hoffman and husband Joel, and Heidi (Zimmer) Misener and husband Matthew; and five cherished grandchildren: Thomas Crivelli, Garrett Hoffman (and wife Molly Bedard), Cassidy Hoffman, Austin Cinker and Evan Cinker. She is welcomed into heaven by her two beloved brothers, Richard (Dick) Chismire and Donald (Don) Chismire, who preceded her in passing.

A woman of deep Christian faith, Marty lived her beliefs through service, kindness, and an open heart. She was an active member of every church she attended, giving her time generously and finding joy in fellowship with others.

Music was woven throughout Marty’s life. Whether listening, playing, or dancing with Lloyd—especially on dance floors where others often stepped aside just to watch them move—music brought her pure happiness.  She was a talented organist herself, hosting music parties where she and her fellow musicians took turns performing for the gathering.

Marty also had a tender love for animals. Over the years she cared for several beloved cats, and in more recent years their home became a favorite stop for neighborhood dogs, who knew exactly where to go for treats and a gentle scratch behind the ears.

Gifted with hospitality, Marty made everyone feel welcome. Her kitchen was a place of comfort and creativity, where delicious meals seemed to appear effortlessly and where friends and family gathered to share food, laughter, and love.

Our mother lived a life centered on love, service, and faith. Though we will miss her dearly, we rejoice in knowing that she is now at home with the Lord she trusted so faithfully.

Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 10th at Ken Mawr Presbyterian Church, 1760 Pine Hollow Road, McKees Rocks, PA 15136. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ken Mawr Presbyterian Church.

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