Vermilion High School
Hall of Fame           
                                  

 

 
 
           2005 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE

   EDWIN G. ZIEMKE

EDWIN G. ZIEMKE – Mr. Edwin G. Ziemke retired in 1981 after 30 years of distinguished service to the Vermilion Local Schools.  A veteran of World War II, Ed was a soldier with the Thirty-Sixth Armored Infantry Regiment, Third Armored Division, and the First Army.  Mr. Ziemke fought for our country during the Invasion of Normandy, Battle of the Bulge, and served as a Military Police officer in Paris, France.  His military honors include:  European and African Medals of War; East Campaign Medal with two Battle Stars; World War II Victory Medals; Combat Infantry Medals; and two Purple Hearts.  After leaving the service as a decorated World War II veteran, Ed returned to his family in 1946 and attended the College of Wooster.  Mr. Ziemke lettered four years in football as a defensive linebacker and offensive tackle.  He also participated in the college track and field program.  Ed began working with the Vermilion Local Schools in 1953 and was head football coach through 1957.  Also during this time, Ed was head basketball coach and reserve coach for the first two years, eventually assuming the position of head varsity coach for seven more years, winning 93 games and losing 46.  Ed’s most accomplished season in basketball was in 1959-1960, when his team finished with a 17-4 record while winning the Conference and District Championships.  In 1961, Ed became the first Athletic Director for Vermilion High School, holding the position for 13 years, during which time the new athletic complex was built.  Ed has remained active in the Vermilion Community as a member and past President of the Lion’s Club and presently serves on the Vermilion Park Board committee.  Mr. Ziemke was instrumental in building the gazebo at Victory Park where Ed was honored to give the Veteran’s Speech on Memorial Day.  Ed is married to Eileen and they have two children, Kathy Mitchell and Mike.  Mr. Ziemke will be escorted by VHS Student Council member Bryanna Rivers.