Comprehensive History
The history of our firm begins with my grandfather, Ray F. Zimdars. He entered the life insurance business in the 1920s in DePere and Green Bay, Wisconsin. His life insurance sales and management career persevered through The Great Depression and his practice prospered until his retirement in the 1960s. Ray was widely respected for his business knowledge and support of the community. He served on the board of directors of the State Bank of DePere for many years.
After graduating from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, Ray’s son, John C. (Jack) Zimdars, Sr. followed in his father’s footsteps and entered the life insurance business briefly before World War II. Following his service in the army during World War II, he returned to Madison and, in 1946, started the business that would become The Zimdars Company, Inc. While Jack and Ray maintained separate life insurance practices, they worked jointly with some of Ray’s clients. Even today, we continue to work with clients that have a relationship with our family dating back to Ray’s insurance practice.
Upon graduating from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in 1973, John C. (John) Zimdars, Jr. joined the firm. He and his father practiced together for over 15 years until Jack’s retirement in the late 1980s. John has earned his Chartered Life Underwriter® (CLU®) and Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) designations, and a Master of Sciences in Financial Services (MsFS) from the American College. John has specialized in business succession and personal estate planning for over 40 years.
The Zimdars Company “family” is rounded out with our two associates, Lynne Keppler and Vicki Rodgerson. Both have specialized in the life insurance industry for their entire careers. They and their expertise are integral to our client service. Lynne and Vicki have assisted Zimdars Company clients for over 30 years. Their skill and continuity provide ongoing support to our clients and their other advisors.