On August 1, 2014, the body of Robert M. Zimmerman, Sr., an 82-year-old male, was discovered at the Avamere Heritage Rehab facility in Tacoma, Washington. It was determined that he had passed away from natural causes while in the care of the facility. Despite his veteran status and the rights this conferred regarding his end-of-life care, Zimmerman's family was unfortunately unable to claim his remains following his death.
In accordance with local protocols for unclaimed persons, Zimmerman's body was transferred to a rotation funeral home, where he was cremated. His cremains were subsequently returned to the Pierce County Medical Examiner's Office (PCMEO), as his family remained unable to make arrangements for his final disposition. The PCMEO, responsible for handling such cases, took the necessary steps to ensure that Zimmerman would receive a dignified resting place.
Recognizing Zimmerman's eligibility for burial as a veteran, efforts were made to provide him with appropriate honors. On January 8, 2015, the cremains of Robert M. Zimmerman, Sr. were entrusted to the Missing in America Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to locating, identifying, and interring the unclaimed remains of American veterans. The Project ensured that Zimmerman was laid to rest with the respect and honors befitting a veteran at the Tahoma National Cemetery.
Throughout this process, the Pierce County Medical Examiner's Office, located at 3619 Pacific Avenue in Tacoma, Washington, managed the case with professionalism and care. They remain a vital resource for inquiries related to this case, and they can be reached at 253-798-6494 for further information. With the combined efforts of the PCMEO and the Missing in America Project, Robert M. Zimmerman, Sr. was accorded the recognition and reverence he deserved.
Date Found: 08/01/2014
