Frank William Zimba

WINSLOW – It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Frank (Bill) Zimba, 81, on Jan. 23, 2025, at his home in Winslow. He was born in Augusta on Aug. 10, 1943, the only child of Frank Zimba and Germaine (Arbour) Zimba.

He attended Waterville High School where he met his Sweetheart, Pat Audet, and graduated as class president in 1963. They were married on Aug. 28, 1965, his senior year at Husson College, where he graduated in 1966, giving the commencement address as vice president of his class. He received his BA in Business Administration.

His first job was manager trainee for Swift Meat Company in New Hampshire, but they soon realized that Maine was where home was. He started working at Al Zimba Company, a plastering company started by his uncle Albert Zimba which he purchased in 1972. He grew the company by incorporating all phases of drywall and plaster installations residential and commercial, along with retail sales and deliveries of materials. He treated his employees with firmness and respect, having an interest in not only mentoring them, building their skills as professional applicators, but also with their personal lives and families. He sold the business in 2002 to Ron Loubier who began his career there.

In Bill’s personal life, he loved the outdoors, enjoying fishing, hunting, boating, skiing, and hiking with both family and friends. He was very competitive and would take any challenge. After retiring, he and Pat took tennis and golf lessons, something they could do together anytime. But his greatest enjoyment was his children’s and grandchildren’s visits at the many birthday and holiday gatherings throughout the year, with silly stories, antics, and much laughter. His BBQ with “special steaks” was always looked forward to with enjoyment.

He was predeceased by his parents; in-laws, Bob and Madeline (Butler) Audet; and sister-in-law, Gloria Audet.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Pat; son Jeffrey, daughter-in-law Angela, and grandson Nicholas; daughter Cheryl, son-in-law Blaine Anthony; son Gregory, daughter-in-law Wanda, and grandchildren Jordan and Drake.

The family would like to thank the Winslow Rescue, Delta and Winslow Police for their efforts and their compassion.

There will be a commemorative service this spring at St. Francis Cemetery in Waterville.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.