Karson Cole Zimmerman, age 20, of Safford, passed away on Thursday, May 23, 2024. Born on November 11, 2003, Karson was the cherished son of Keith and Amy Zimmerman. The beloved brother of Megan Milton and Jessica Villalba, and adored uncle to Luke and Madden Milton.
Karson was a radiant presence, with his striking blonde hair and blue eyes, capturing the hearts of all who had the privilege of meeting him. His laughter and smile brought joy to everyone around him. Karson had a deep love for the outdoors and animals, finding his greatest happiness in the mountains, hills, and especially on horseback with his faithful dog by his side.
While attending Safford High School, Karson discovered a passion for wrestling. The hours he spent on the mat, alongside his teammates and coaches, became some of his most cherished memories. After graduating from Safford High School in May 2022, Karson dedicated himself to serving as a wildland firefighter with the Bureau of Land Management. He further pursued his passion by studying equine dentistry and farriery at the Oklahoma Horseshoeing School in Purcell, Oklahoma. Karson excelled in his work, embracing the challenges and hard work with enthusiasm and dedication.
Karson epitomized the qualities of a diligent and devoted worker. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. To know Karson was to love him, and those fortunate enough to have been touched by his light will forever feel blessed.
In this time of sorrow, we remember Karson’s warmth, his love for life, and the joy he brought into our lives. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were touched by his beautiful spirit.
Karson was preceded in death by his grandfather, George Devon Shurtz; grandmother, Caroline Elizabeth Matlock; and aunt, Julie Buth.
He is survived by his parents, Amy and Keith Zimmerman; his sisters, Megan Milton and Jessica Villalba; his brothers-in-law, Marco Milton and Charles Villalba; and his nephew Luke Milton and niece Madden Milton.
Funeral services for Karson will be conducted Saturday morning, June 1, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., at the Solomonville Chapel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by Brother Wayne Lines of the Solomonville Ward. Concluding services will follow in the Central Cemetery.
The family will receive friends Friday evening, May 31, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., at the Vining Funeral Home and Saturday morning, June 1, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. until 9:45 a.m., at the Solomonville Chapel Relief Society Room of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Those who would like to attend the services via Facebook Live can join on Vining Funeral Home’s Facebook page, Saturday morning, June 1, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. (MST).
Online condolences may be offered at www.viningfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are entrusted to Vining Funeral Home.