Larry Zimmer Cause of Death and Obituary, What Happened to Larry Zimmer? How did Larry Zimmer Die? Who was Larry Zimmer?

Larry Zimmer Cause of Death: The legendary voice of sports, Larry Zimmer, whose peaceful passing at the age of 88 leaves a void in the hearts of the University of Colorado and Denver Broncos fans.

by Aishwarya R

Updated Jan 22, 2024

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Larry Zimmer Cause of Death and Obituary, What Happened to Larry Zimmer? How did Larry Zimmer Die? Who was Larry Zimmer?
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Larry Zimmer Cause of Death

As per the NewYorkPost, Legendary radio voice Larry Zimmer, known for his enduring contributions to both the University of Colorado and the Denver Broncos, peacefully passed away at the age of 88. Following a 10-day hospitalization at St. Anthony's in Lakewood, Colorado, Zimmer died surrounded by his family. His cause of death has not been disclosed yet. 

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The Buffaloes' athletic director, Rick George, expressed deep condolences, referring to Zimmer as "A CU institution." Recognized for his synonymous association with the university's athletic program, Zimmer's voice resonated with coaches, players, and fans alike.  His role extended beyond game commentary, as he served as a master of ceremonies for various functions, making him an integral part of CU's athletic history. The heartfelt statement from George highlighted the profound impact Zimmer had on the entire sports community, concluding with thoughts and prayers for his family.

The Denver Broncos also mourned the loss of Larry Zimmer, acknowledging him as a legendary Broncos radio broadcaster and a longstanding member of the Broncos Ring of Fame committee. Since 1971, Zimmer has been the voice behind some of the franchise's most iconic moments, contributing significantly to the team's history. The team's statement on social media reflected the sadness felt by the organization, emphasizing Zimmer's role in calling memorable games and helping honor the greatest legends of the Broncos. His legacy as a broadcaster and committee member will be remembered fondly by the Broncos community, marking the end of an era in the team's history.

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Who was Larry Zimmer?

Larry Zimmer was an iconic figure in the world of sports broadcasting, notably recognized for his significant contributions to both the Denver Broncos and the University of Colorado. Over the span of 26 years, from 1971 to 1996, Zimmer played a pivotal role as the radio voice for the Broncos. Initially serving as a color commentator from 1971 to 1989, he then transitioned to the position of play-by-play announcer from 1990 to 1996. Zimmer's unmistakable voice became synonymous with some of the most memorable moments in Broncos history, covering a total of 536 games, including postseason matchups and four Super Bowls.

Beyond his role with the Broncos, Zimmer also left an indelible mark on the University of Colorado, where he served as the radio voice of the Buffaloes for an extensive period. Over the course of his remarkable career, Zimmer called more than 1,000 games for the university, including 486 football games (featuring 22 bowls) and 525 men's basketball games. With a career spanning 42 years on the Colorado campus, Zimmer's legacy extends far beyond the broadcast booth, making him a cherished and integral part of the sports community in both Denver and Boulder. His final call for the Buffaloes occurred in 2015, marking the end of an era for CU athletics and leaving a lasting impact on the hearts of fans.

Specifications

Details

Name

Larry Zimmer

Gender

Male

Profession

Legendary Radio Broadcaster

Place of Birth

New Orleans, Louisiana

Place of Death

Lakewood, Colorado

Age at Death

88

Cause of Death

Not disclosed

Marital Status

Married

Wife Name

Brigitte

Children

Son Lawrence, Daughter Tracy, Granddaughter Shannon

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Larry Zimmer Career

Larry Zimmer's illustrious broadcasting career spanned several decades, showcasing his versatility and expertise in covering a variety of sports. His journey began in Missouri and continued during his Army stint in Oklahoma, demonstrating an early commitment to the craft of sports broadcasting. In 1966, Zimmer made a significant move to WAAM in Ann Arbor, MI, where he became the "voice" for the University of Michigan Wolverines' football, basketball, and hockey teams.

However, it was in Colorado that Larry Zimmer truly became a broadcasting icon. Joining KOA Radio and Television in 1971, he quickly became synonymous with University of Colorado football, earning the title of the "voice of the Buffaloes." Over the years, Zimmer's contributions to college football broadcasting were recognized with prestigious awards. In December, he received the Chris Schenkel Award at the National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame banquet in New York City. This accolade honors sportscasters with distinguished careers broadcasting college football at a single institution, reflecting Zimmer's enduring commitment to the University of Colorado.

Zimmer's career extended beyond college football, as he handled play-by-play duties for the Denver Rockets of the American Basketball Association and provided color commentary for the Denver Broncos for 19 seasons. Following the passing of KOA Sports Director Bob Martin, Zimmer took over play-by-play duties for the Broncos for an additional seven seasons. His influence also reached the soccer world as the "voice" of the North American Soccer League's Colorado Caribous.

Although officially retiring as KOA Sports Director in 2004, Larry Zimmer remained actively involved in broadcasting, continuing as a color commentator for CU football broadcasts. Even in retirement, he demonstrated unwavering dedication, completing his 36th season covering Colorado football in 2009. Zimmer's resilience and passion for sports broadcasting earned him a well-deserved place in the Broadcast Professionals of Colorado Hall of Fame and solidified his status as a legendary figure in the state's sporting history.

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Larry Zimmer Family

Larry Zimmer, the beloved sports broadcaster, leaves behind a cherished family as part of his enduring legacy. Survived by his wife of 51 years, Brigitte, Zimmer's family includes his son Lawrence, daughter Tracy, and granddaughter Shannon. The 51-year marriage with Brigitte stands as a testament to the enduring bonds and shared experiences they built together.

Zimmer's family undoubtedly played a significant role in supporting his illustrious career, sharing in the highs and lows of his journey through the world of sports broadcasting. As they mourn the loss of a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Larry Zimmer's family can take solace in the profound impact he made on the sports community and the lasting memories he created both personally and professionally.

Larry Zimmer Early Life

Larry Zimmer, a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, embarked on a path that would lead him to become a distinguished figure in the world of sports broadcasting. While specific details about his parents and siblings are not known, Zimmer's educational journey began at Louisiana State University. He later graduated from the University of Missouri in 1957, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in journalism. This academic background laid the foundation for his future career in broadcasting.

Following his graduation, Larry Zimmer spent two years in active duty in the U.S. Army, a period during which he achieved the rank of 1st Lieutenant. His military service was not only a testament to his commitment but also a time during which he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal, recognizing his notable contributions and dedication. The early chapters of Zimmer's life reflect a trajectory marked by educational achievements and service to his country, setting the stage for the remarkable career that would unfold in the field of sports journalism and broadcasting.

Larry Zimmer Achievements

Larry Zimmer's broadcasting career spanning six decades is adorned with a multitude of achievements, showcasing his versatility and excellence in covering a wide range of sporting events. His coverage includes Olympic competitions, NFL Europe, the College World Series in Omaha, regional and NCAA basketball for major networks such as NBC, CBS, and ESPN, as well as World Cup Ski events. Zimmer's expertise extended to anchoring radio coverage of the 1989 World Ski Championships in Vail and syndicated television coverage of the 1990 World Disabled Championships at Winter Park.

Zimmer's contributions to ski journalism earned him prestigious recognition, winning the White Stagg Award for Excellence in Ski Journalism five times. Additionally, his impact on the sports broadcasting scene in Colorado was evident through his five-time achievement of the Colorado Sportscaster of the Year Award. In 1996, Zimmer received the distinguished title of Colorado Broadcaster of the Year, further cementing his status as a broadcasting luminary in the state.

Beyond his on-air accomplishments, Larry Zimmer's dedication to the field extended to education. Before his passing, he continued to share his wealth of knowledge as an adjunct sports journalism professor at the University of Colorado. Together with his wife, Zimmer established an endowed sports announcing scholarship at CU, ensuring that his legacy lives on by supporting and nurturing future generations of sports broadcasters. Larry Zimmer's achievements not only resonate in the broadcasts of iconic events but also in his lasting impact on the sports journalism community and the education of aspiring sports broadcasters.

Larry Zimmer Obituary

In Larry Zimmer's passing, a resonant voice in sports fell silent. A stalwart of the University of Colorado and the Denver Broncos, his legacy echoes through six decades of broadcasting excellence. Known as "A CU institution," his voice was more than commentary; it was woven into the fabric of athletic history. Larry Zimmer, the iconic radio broadcaster, leaves behind a void that spans the realms of football fields and basketball courts. His enduring impact and legendary status make his loss deeply felt, and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family. Farewell to a broadcasting icon who etched his name into the hearts of fans and the annals of sports history.

What Happened to Larry Zimmer?

Longtime radio voice Larry Zimmer passed away at the age of 88 after a 10-day hospitalization at St. Anthony’s in Lakewood, Colo. The Denver Broncos and the University of Colorado expressed mourning for Zimmer's death in statements released after his passing. Buffaloes athletic director Rick George referred to Zimmer as "A CU institution," emphasizing his integral role in the university's athletic program. The Broncos acknowledged Zimmer as a legendary radio broadcaster who, since 1971, had called some of the franchise's most iconic moments and contributed to honoring the team's greatest legends. 

How did Larry Zimmer Die?

Longtime radio voice Larry Zimmer passed away at the age of 88 after a peaceful death surrounded by his family. His passing followed a 10-day hospitalization at St. Anthony’s in Lakewood, Colo. The cause of Larry Zimmer's death was not explicitly disclosed. Both the University of Colorado and the Denver Broncos released statements mourning his death, with Buffaloes athletic director Rick George emphasizing Zimmer's significant contributions to the university's athletic program. The Broncos acknowledged his legendary status as a radio broadcaster and his role in commemorating the franchise's iconic moments and greatest legends.



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Larry Zimmer Cause of Death - FAQs

1. What was the cause of Larry Zimmer's death?

The cause of Larry Zimmer's death has not been disclosed yet. 

2. What happened to Larry Zimmer?

Larry Zimmer passed away peacefully at the age of 88 after a 10-day hospitalization at St. Anthony’s in Lakewood, Colo. His death was surrounded by family.

3. How did Larry Zimmer die?

Larry Zimmer's death details are not explicitly mentioned in the available information. However, it is stated that he died peacefully after a 10-day hospitalization.

4. Who was Larry Zimmer?

Larry Zimmer was a legendary radio voice known for his enduring contributions to the University of Colorado and the Denver Broncos. He served as the "voice of the Buffaloes" and had a remarkable broadcasting career spanning six decades.

5. What is Larry Zimmer's legacy in sports broadcasting?  

Larry Zimmer's legacy in sports broadcasting is marked by his iconic role as a radio voice for the University of Colorado and the Denver Broncos. He covered a wide range of sporting events over six decades, earning prestigious awards for excellence in ski journalism and Colorado sportscasting. Zimmer's impact extended beyond the broadcast booth, making him an integral part of the state's sports history.

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