Warren James Zimpfer, 85, of Pevely died May 24, 2024, at Scenic Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Herculaneum. Mr. Zimpfer graduated from Herculaneum High School in 1957. Though he earned a football scholarship to Mizzou and was drafted by the Green Bay Packers, he decided against a football career, instead staying home and helping take care of his mother. This decision led him to eventually meet his wife, Frankie, when she walked into the Artesian Lounge. They married in 1959. He was a reserve member of the Army National Guard, a machinist for Heizer Aerospace Engineering and a member of the Amvets Post 42 in Herculaneum. He served as Ward I alderman for the city of Pevely for many years. He enjoyed watching football, especially the Chiefs, golfing, gardening, doing yard work, hunting, fishing and cooking. He was passionate about barbecuing and known among his family and friends for having the best barbecue. Born April 29, 1939, in Pevely, he was the son of the late Margaret A. (Johnston) and Edward Charles Zimpfer.
He was preceded in death by his wife: Frankie J. (Cash) Zimpfer.
He is survived by two children: Timothy W. (Ann) Zimpfer and Kimberly S. (Ron Weldon) Kaltenronn; four grandchildren: Ryan T. Zimpfer, Travis G. Zimpfer, Erin M. Kaltenbronn and TSgt. Scott D. (Amy) Kaltenbronn; two great-granddaughters: Skylar E. and Rylie R. Kaltenbronn; a niece: Brenda S. (Robert) Pigg; two nephews: Robert P. (Irene) Laiben and Larry J. (Janet) Laiben; five lifelong friends: Edward L. and Sue Swan, Rhonda and Greg Cautrel, and Kevin B. Swan; and numerous friends.
He also was preceded in death by a brother: Edward I. (Maria) Zimpfer; a sister: June S. (the late Robert) Laiben; and a dear friend: Brian K. Swan.
Visitation is scheduled from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, May 30, at Vinyard Hillcrest Funeral Home, 9115 Commercial Blvd., in Pevely. Funeral services are scheduled for 10 a.m. Friday, May 31, at the funeral home, officiated by the Rev. Tish Green. Burial will be in Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Pevely. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, or the American Cancer Society. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Hillcrest Funeral Home.