Earl John Zimdahl Sr; of San Antonio, Texas, passed away on Wednesday April 22, 2020 at the age of 88.  After a years-long battle with cancer, he died peacefully at home with his beloved wife (Esther) and his daughter (Jeannie) by his side. Earl was born in July of 1931, in Theresa, Wisconsin, to Elmer and Esther Zimdahl. He grew up working on his family farm where he would master the trade of agriculture and develop what would become perhaps his most memorable quality: the ability to fix absolutely anything with some basic tools and a little innovation.As a young man, Earl enlisted in the United States Air Force and served his country as an airplane mechanic. While Earl was stationed at Kelly Air Force Base, in 1955, he met the love of his life, Esther, and they were married in 1956. After proudly completing his service, Earl returned to Wisconsin where he farmed with his beloved wife; the two of them would spend many years proudly continuing the family tradition of farming. He was proud to be a farmer, worked at Gehl Mfg. Co for 27 years, drove school bus, raised 6 children, and took in strays (human and animal alike). His children can most fondly attest to his undaunting work ethic, jack-of-all-trades, master of love for family, his gentle kindness with animals,and his willingness to never turn down anyone in need--he lovingly instilled these traits in his children and their children. His greatest joys in life were family and friends, enjoying reunions, traveling in his RV, talking with family, friends, and strangers...and cookies. In Earl's latter years, he and Esther would retire to San Antonio, although Earl could never bring himself to actually stop working…He spent every day of his life in loving devotion to his wife and every able-bodied day in service to his greater family, friends, volunteered for the VA, and also served the community, church, and a great many more stray animals.

Earl is preceded in death by Mother & Father Esther & Elmer Zimdahl and Brother Elmer Zimdahl Jr.

Earl is survived by Esther, his devoted wife of 64 years, and their children: Earl J Zimdahl Jr (Melinda); Edward J Zimdahl; E Jeannie (David) Robinson; E Jayne (Charlie) Pierog; Elroy J Zimdahl (Kim); Thomas A Zimdahl (Joyce). He is also survived by 8 grandchildren, 11 step grandchildren,  6 Great grandchildren, 10 Step Great children, sister Evelyn Dunisch, brother Elsmer Zimdahl (Beverly) and a host of other family members and loved ones.

Pastor Johnny Perez of Bible Baptist church will be facilitating Earl's memorial service on Wednesday, April 29, 2020 at San Antonio Mortuary. Due to the current global pandemic, and the World Health Organization's advice against gatherings of more than 10, the family is asking that extended family, friends, and loved ones contact the San Antonio Mortuary for specific details regarding restrictions.

Earl's final resting place will be the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.

Condolences and cards can be sent to:

San Antonio Mortuary

RE: The Family of Earl Zimdahl Sr

703 Palo Alto Rd

San Antonio, TX 78211