Obituaries

Samantha Zimmerman 

Our lives were forever changed on January, 27th 2026, Samantha Catherine Zimmerman, born December 4th 1999 in Winnipeg, recently residing in Gimli Manitoba, tragically and suddenly passed away in a car accident on her way home at the young age of 26 years old.

She leaves behind and will be forever remembered by her mother Christine Zimmerman, Father Blake Zimmerman (Peggy & family), sister Ryliegh, loving boyfriend Tyler Hrousalas, and Grandma (Edith Caron), along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and close friends. She was predeceased by her Grandpa (Gilles Caron), uncles (Paul & Don Caron), cousins (Tanner Nicholls & Stephanie Caron).

Sam’s childhood was defined by summers at the lake with her mom and family. Core memories were made between the stories around the campfire and the joy of having endless fun with family friends. This was the foundation for Sam’s love for the outdoors and the countryside, which evidently followed her though life.

Sam was the friend you could count on. She always knew how to make her people feel loved and put a smile on their face. She met some of her lifelong friends throughout her school years following each through every season of life. She truly would have moved mountains for all of the friends she cared for.

Sam and her loving partner, Ty, had recently relocated to Gimli with their fur babies (Zeekers, Ace, Bibble and Nessie) as living on the beach aligned with their shared love of finding freedom in nature. Sam lived her life boldly with enthusiasm and her heart on her sleeve. She had a beautiful gift for bringing people together. She had undeniable presence, and her lively laugh would echo through the room.

Over the 4 years of her career, Sam dedicated herself providing support and guidance to the at risk youth she cared for. She naturally took the role of an older sister, using her young bright spirit and compassion to build strong lasting relationships, with not only the youth but her coworkers. Her unwavering loyalty, and empathy made her thrive. Which she displayed in every aspect of her life. This line of work allowed her to learn more about her own Metis heritage which she had started to embrace. She recently received her spirit animal “Otter”, spirit name “Healing Eagle Women” and spirit colors turquois and greens. She attended many pow wows and really enjoyed the drumming.

She lived with her whole heart and did everything at full force. Sam loved music, reading, animals and using her body as a canvas to express herself through her tattoos. If it was up to Sam she would bring home every animal from the shelter. Her passions were big and unmistakable. Once she picked up a book she devoured it, finishing stories in days and carrying pieces of them with her. The way she loved what she loved- completely and without hesitation – is something we will always admire and never forget.

Sam’s legacy lives on in her love for Ty, the friendships she cherished, the children she cared for, the family she adored, and the countless lives made brighter by her presence.

A celebration of life in honor of Samantha will be held at the Caboto Centre (1055 Wilkes Ave) at 1pm on March 6th 2026.

“Keep going because that person in heaven doesn’t want you to quit”
Quote taken from Sam’s Facebook July 2024