Wallace Glen Zimmerman, known to many as "Tig," passed away on February 3, 2025, in Hilo, Hawaii, at the age of 36. Born on February 19, 1988, in Alexandria, Louisiana, and raised in Deville, Wallace embraced life with an adventurous spirit and a passion for helping others.

From an early age, Wallace possessed a boundless curiosity and a deep connection to the world around him. He attended Buckeye Elementary, Hayden R. Lawrence Middle School, and Buckeye High School before earning his high school equivalency degree. His hands were always busy creating—whether fixing up cars and motorcycles or designing and building something from scratch. He pursued a career as a carpenter but was much more than that; he was a master craftsman whose ingenuity shaped elegant homes, innovative affordable housing, and fine furnishings. His talent extended beyond construction—he sought to uplift others by designing self-sustaining living solutions and clean water sources for communities in need, reaching as far as Colombia.

Above all else, Wallace cherished his children, Kiley (11) and Connor (10) Sweetman, whom he shared with their mother, Megan Sweetman. He is also survived by his father and stepmother, Phillip Zimmerman (Janice); his paternal grandmother, Jessie Jeffers; his maternal grandmother, Ruth McNeely Chatelain; his sister and brother-in-law, Jessica "Angel" Leger (Eric); his niece Kaylyn Leger (23); and his nephews David Paul (17), Cameron Paul (14), and Christian Leger (2). He leaves behind many aunts, uncles, cousins, the Rainbow Family, and his lifelong childhood friend and brother in bond, Jack Ocheltree.

Wallace was preceded in death by his mother, Angela McNeely Zimmerman Deville; his maternal grandfathers, Glen McNeely and Wade Chatelain; his paternal grandfather, Wallace Zimmerman; his uncle and mentor, Lloyd McNeely; his mentor and close friend in Hawaii, Jeffery ; and his lifelong friend and brother in bond, Joey Deville.

A free spirit with an insatiable love for adventure, Wallace traveled the world spreading kindness wherever he went—often while facing immense hardships and struggles of his own. He found solace on the water while fishing or surfing the waves of Hawaii’s shores. Hunting brought him peace amid nature’s vast beauty. No challenge was too great for him to embrace—his fearless nature propelled him toward new experiences at every turn. But above all else, he thrived on human connection. His heart was open to everyone he met—offering protection to those who needed it most and ensuring that no one felt alone in their journey through life.

Faith played an integral role in Wallace’s path. Baptized as a child at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, he also attended New Hope Free Methodist Church with family. Though life tested him in many ways—including battles with addiction—he ultimately found salvation through faith. As an adult seeking renewal of spirit, he was baptized again at Baptist Church before reaffirming this commitment once more at Kahola Baptist Church - Chapel Makapala in Hawaii. His relationship with God became central to his mission—to share hope wherever he traveled and guide others toward faith’s light even amidst darkness.

Wallace lived multiple lifetimes within just 36 years experiencing both immense hardship and extraordinary beauty along the way. Though he called many places home throughout his journey—the deepest parts of his soul belonged to Hawaii’s spirit and his mother’s embrace at Muddy Bayou. His legacy is one of resilience—a testament to living boldly despite adversity—and an unwavering devotion to those he loved most.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Cornerstone Baptist Church (Formerly Gateway) in Ball, Louisiana (7074 Monroe Hwy).

A additional service will take place on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 3:00 PM on the Big Island of Hawaii at Kohala Baptist Church . His ashes will be scattered in the Valley of Prayers.

Wallace Glen "Tig" Zimmerman lived boldly, loved fiercely, and left an unforgettable mark on those who knew him. May his memory continue to inspire kindness and adventure in all who were touched by his spirit. Aloha 

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