ZIMMERMAN, George Ellis, age 86 of Kettering, OH, passed away Wednesday, September 14, 2011. George was born October 15, 1924 in Eaton, OH, son of the late Edwin Russell and Mary Elizabeth (Saylor) Zimmerman. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary (Hiatt) Zimmerman, who operated the Mary Hiatt Dance Studios in Dayton for 46 years and his sister, Sara Alice Albin.

George was a graduate of the USAF Pilot School Class of 1942, the University of Dayton Class of 1951 and the University of Cincinnati School of Law Class of 1954.

Mr. Zimmerman practiced law with Earle Moore, John Ensley, Gail Everman and Ray White before practicing solo from 1959 to 2007, when he retired. His practice concentrations were criminal law and personal injury. Despite an Air Force service injury that affected his hearing, George was a very effective and articulate lawyer who always imparted an air of dignity, professionalism, humor and wit. He represented several notorious persons during his career and was fond of telling of the time a new client asked his secretary if George was a criminal lawyer, and she replied, “They think so, but they haven’t been able to prove it!”

George was a member of the Dayton and Ohio Bar Associations. He will always be remembered for his doting attention to his beloved wife, Mary, his kind nature, his grasp of the English language, his good counsel and his love of automobiles and airplanes.

A Funeral Service will be held 1 PM Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at Baker-Hazel & Snider Funeral Home & Crematory, 5555 Philadelphia Dr., Dayton, OH 45415, Rev. Dr. Brian Q. Newcomb officiating. Interment Woodland Cemetery. The family will receive visitors 12-1 PM Tuesday at the funeral home.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of George Ellis Zimmerman, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.