Obituary of Mary Ellen Zimmerling (nee Perry)

Mary Ellen died in her sleep in Shawville hospital on Friday, May 19, 2023 at the age of 85 years. Loving wife of Lennis Zimmerling for 53 years.  She leaves behind her daughter Jill (Jawad Khatid) and her children Zachary and Haddy, of Aylmer, Quebec and is predeceased by son Jack.  Survived by her brother George Perry (late Barbara) of Consecon, Ontario and their children and grandchildren.  Predeceased by her parents Reverend Walter and Ella Perry of Gananoque.  Mary Ellen was born into a minister’s family.  They lived in Chesterville, Ontario and Cobourg Pentecostal church camp.  She grew up in their ministry.  At a young age she learned how to play the piano and to sing, even teaching the accordion.  She dealt with the campers while her parents did custodial work at the camp.  At an early age, she accepted Jesus as her personal saviour.  Mary Ellen worked at Cobourg Sentinel Star newspaper, later at Hynes Printing in Cobourg.  In Toronto, she took a business course and courses for the printing business later on.  At 28 years of age, the Lord brought Mary Ellen and Lennis together.  They have enjoyed life together for 53 years of marriage during which time Jack and Jill were adopted.  Living in Bristol village, farming for 24 years in Quyon made retirement in Shawville possible and spending time at the cottage.  Many trials, sickness and problems were experienced all with the solid rock of Jesus to guide the way through.  God takes a piece of coal and under pressure makes a diamond.  He is still working on me. 

A "deep thanks" to all who helped with Mary Ellen for the past 15 years, workers from Mont d'Or, CLSC, doctors, staff and nurses from the Pontiac Community Hospital.

A “Graduation” service for Mary Ellen will be held in a later date.