LIMA — William R. Zimmerman Sr., Common Pleas probate and juvenile judge in Shelby County has been selected to run in November for the Republicans for the seat of Third District Court of Appeals.

Running were Zimmerman, Amy Ikerd, assistant prosecutor in Mercer County; and Richard Henry Palau, city prosecutor in Tiffin.

Late Tuesday, in unofficial totals, had Zimmerman with 79,929 votes, Ikerd with 29,289 votes, and Palau with 10,738 votes.

Zimmerman said it was a good night and he was very happy with the results. He said his family was a big help in getting his name out. “I have the up-most respect for Amy and she really worked hard. I however didn’t have much care for my other opponent who was looking to drag people through the mud,” Zimmerman said. “The first half is over and off to November we go.”

Ikerd said she ran the best campaign she could and is proud and thankful of all the volunteers that help.

“I am honored to have been a candidate for the third district seat and I am confident Zimmerman will be a wonderful judge on the court of appeals,” Ikerd said.

Palau wished to congratulate Zimmerman and said, “God does not make mistakes. God bless us all.”

The winner of the Republican primary will be on the ballot in November, running against Randall Basinger, a Democrat, who stepped down as Common Pleas judge in Putnam County. The new 3rd District judge will replace Judge Richard Rogers, whose term ends next year.

The 3rd District Court of Appeals, located in Lima, comprises 17 Ohio counties in northeast Ohio. Stephen Shaw, Vernon Preston and John Willamowski are the other currently serving judges.