Surnames: Zimmerman, Tragsdorf

----Source: Neillsville Press (Neillsville, Clark County, Wis.) 10 Nov. 1932

Zimmerman, John George (22 Aug. 1857 - *6 Nov. 1932) * Could be off

This community was deeply grieved Monday morning to learn that one of its most beloved citizens, J. G. Zimmerman, had passed away quietly between 3 and 4 o'clock that morning. He had been slightly indisposed for a few days last week and on Sunday enjoyed an auto ride with members of the family, returning in fine spirits and eating supper with the family group.

He retired as usual, but almost 3 o'clock complained to his wife that he was not feeling right. The sons were called and medical help summoned but before they arrived he had passed away.

John George Zimmerman was born on a farm in Grant County, Wis., Aug. 22, 1857, being the son of George and Catherine Zimmerman, who were natives of Germany. He grew to manhood on the farm having the usual stern experience of farm life in a pioneer community, helping to clear and work the land in the days before improved farm machinery was generally used. He attended school in a pioneer log school house, but at an early age left school to work with a construction crew, later becoming a foreman.

Some idea of his force of character and his standing in the community May be gleaned from the fact that he was elected justice of the peace in his home town when he was only 21 years old. He later served as town chairman, town clerk and president of the village of Avoca.

In this village he opened a furniture shore and undertaking establishment but the next year sold out and bought a half interest in a store at Muscoda, moving his family to that village.

In 1901 he entered into partnership with Ben Tragsdorf in what was known as the Big Store in Neillsville. This partnership continued until Mr. Tragsdorf's death in 1910. The business was then incorporated and after some changes became the J. G. Zimmerman 7 Sons Co. in 1912. This business was continued by Mr. Zimmerman and his sons until they sold out in February, 1930, to the Farmers Store Co.

Mr. Zimmerman, while not connected with the purchaser, remained at his old desk as a counselor in business matters generally. He spent several hours each day at his post and greatly enjoyed meeting his old friends and customers.

Mr. Zimmerman was a man whose integrity and fairness in business built up confidence and established good will in every business in which he was engaged. He took a strong interest in public affairs, especially in schools and other activities which promoted the general welfare. He was a member of the Masonic order and was for many years active in its work. When the Kiwanis club was organized he became a charter member and took an active part in its program. Some months ago he was made a life member by a vote of the organization.

Mr. Zimmerman's ****Rest cut off********* [continued on another page, which I don't have.]