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Matthew Simmons Obituary
The founder of Houston-based Simmons & Co. International wrote the 2005 book "Twilight in the Desert: The Coming Saudi Oil Shock and the World Economy," raising concerns about Saudi Arabia's oil reserves and laying out his theory that the world was approaching peak oil production.
Two years later, Simmons founded The Ocean Energy Institute, a think tank and venture capital fund in Rockland to promote offshore wind energy research and development.
The institute is a part of the consortium led by the University of Maine, which aims to design and test floating deep-water wind turbine platforms.
"Matt Simmons was an innovative thinker who pushed ideas that have the potential to yield a more environmentally and economically sustainable future for Maine and the world," said Maine Gov. John Baldacci, who attended the opening of the institute's headquarters last month.
Simmons' body was found Sunday night in his hot tub, investigators said.
An autopsy by the state medical examiner's office concluded Monday that he died from accidental drowning with heart disease as a contributing factor.
In 1974, Simmons founded Simmons & Co. International, which grew into one of the largest investment banking companies serving the energy industry. He continued to serve as chairman emeritus until last month, when he retired to give his full energy to the Ocean Energy Institute.
"We are deeply saddened by the unexpected loss of a true visionary and friend. As a pivotal figure in the lives of many of our employees, and countless others across the energy industry, Matt will be sorely missed," Simmons & Co. CEO Mike Frazier said in a statement.
Simmons was critical of BP PLC's handling of the Gulf oil spill and predicted the company would file for bankruptcy. In one interview, he said the cleanup costs could top $1 trillion.
As an international energy expert, Simmons correctly predicted in 2007 that oil would surpass $100 a barrel. The following year, it peaked at $147 a barrel.
Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press
71 Entries
December 30, 2017
A Cherished Friend has Gone Missing. I'm Stunned and Heartsick to learn my Old Pledge Brother and Sigma Chi Stinker-in-Residence passed a long 7 years ago. How can that possibly be and how did I let our personal association slip so very far away? I apologize to Ellen and family for being so tardy in offering my love and support to them. One look at Matt's photo above and the past 50 years are erased in a heartbeat. We're back together in the U. of U. Sig House plotting pranks and discovering ourselves. Young Matt was a special spirit. His impish smile and penchant for mischief were irresistible. Of course, he was always brilliant. That he would become a spectacular success was never in question. With his easy manner and delightful sense-of-humor, Matt was a trusted, Loyal and cherished forever friend. Ive always known that regardless of time or distance Matt would always be there as a Brother. Even while saddened by his loss, that inspiring conviction will never change. You did really good, my friend.
Paul Fledney Engman San Diego, CA
Bob McNally
September 24, 2010
Matt Simmons was a friend and terrific mentor and adviser. Matt's curiosity and infectious enthusiasm, especially energy, will be missed but hopefully emulated by the many who knew and enjoyed his company.
Paula Schuessler
September 22, 2010
Mr. Simmons,
I'm so fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with you at Ocean Energy Institute, if only for a very brief time. I'll always remember your smile, generosity, zest for life, and that twinkle in your eyes.
I think you would be proud to know that so many individuals from around the world have sent their well wishes and support for OEI to continue your vision to make ocean energy a reality. It just won't be the same without you here, but we know you will be with us always in spirit.
My thoughts and prayers go out to your family and friends.
Kazim Khoja
September 14, 2010
It is unfortunate to see such a great person pass away. You will always be remembered for your hard work and dedication to the world of Energy. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Simmons' family.
How you can show support
Mona Rosenfeld
August 31, 2010
As everyone knows, Matt Simmons was an amazing, gifted man on multiple levels. It was a great privilege to be a part of the SCI team and to experience, first hand, how giving and kind he was. Mr. Simmons never lost sight of the people who helped bring his visions to fruition, and he always expressed appreciation to each individual in his firm. At Christmastime, it was touching to see his pure joy when personally handing out "thank you" holiday gifts to each employee -- with a twinkle in his eyes, just like Santa. I feel blessed to be an alumni of Simmons & Co. and to have known such a truly great man. He will be dearly missed by all.
Blessings to the entire Simmons family,
Mona Rosenfeld
Herman Franssen
August 26, 2010
Matt has been an inspiration for me from the beginning I met him at a major conference. I thought I knew a lot about energy until I met Matt. We became good friends and made many trips together to Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. During those trips I also got to know Matt the artist and became impressed with the beautiful water colors he painted during his trips abroad. It was yet another side of his personality. There was Matt the brilliant energy innovator, the businessman, the artist, the friend and the family man.
Matt loved his family and the tribute they gave him in Rockport last Monday was an expression of the love they shared. Matt was a great fiend and I will never forget him.
Herman Franssen
Roger Boyer
August 26, 2010
Matt had a profound influence on my life. I credit Matt with getting me into business school and saving me from following my dad into law. We had some crazy, fun years working for Zions Bank together selling credit life, we roomed together in graduate school, he was my "best man" at my wedding. Matt lived the equivalent of multiple lives in his short time and I hope someone will carry on his energy vision he so enthusiastically shared. They threw away the mold with Matt!
Our love and sympathies to you, Ellen and girls.
Roger and Sara
Valerie Green
August 25, 2010
Ellen,and girls my how times go by. My sister and i use to babysit you girls and Matt was sooo nice always greeted me with a smile and so helpful and just made me feel right at home. I will see you Oct. 4th. My sincere condolences. Valerie & Tonjalis Green
Jeff Monson
August 24, 2010
Matt - I have lost a dear friend of 50 years. Although our lives spread apart after the Sigma Chi days, I always considered you as a wonderful friend. We laughed together, cried together, shared great stories and most of all laughed. I was so happy to have seen you at the mini reunion in SLC in March of this year. A highlight of the year is when you invited Patricia and I to join you and your family in San Francisco a few months ago for a wonderful dinner. I felt like I got "caught up" with you and your dreams concerning energy development. Your passion was felt and I hope it will be continued by those who have worked with you on this venture. Your untimely passing only lets us know how precious life is. I will always consider you a true friend, and wish Ellen and your extended family my heartfelt sympathy and love.
August 22, 2010
I learned to admire Matthew while at the University of Utah in Sigma Chi. I have heard of his many successes and know that his talent will be greatly missed. With love and sympathy! Bruce B. Bowen
August 22, 2010
I echo the comment of an employee of Matt's, "It just doesnt feel real." I've known Matt and his family for decades in lots of different ways. We will miss him. He leaves a great dark hole in so many places. It just doesnt feel real. With love, Mark and Sam Sandler
Cameron Pyne
August 22, 2010
MR. MATT,
WE ALL MISS YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Cameron Pyne
John White
August 22, 2010
Throughout the years, every time I heard Matt speak it served to inspire me and raise my level of enthusiasm for the energy industry. For me he was a great motivator and I loved the enthusiasm he displayed in every conversation I had with him.
Susan Deutsch
August 22, 2010
We remember and thank Matt Simmons for his courageous leaderswhip and significant contributions to our quality of life in the Mid Coast.
We are deeply saddened by his passing and mourn the loss of such profound vision and initiatives which we must all work to perpeturate.
Susan Deutsch and Carlisle Towery. Owlshead, Maine
Arthur L. Smith
August 21, 2010
Matt Simmons was a gift to all he touched in life, work and intellectual pursuit. Those of us who crossed paths in the energy industry were blessed to share his boundless enthusiasm for the real facts: data, analysis and insights.
Matt left a legacy of inspirational thought and unique research; and, without doubt -- a superb ability to clarify complex issues with exceptional presentation skills.
While missed by all, Matt left us with so much to remember him by.
My sympathy to his wonderful family.
Vivek Shah
August 20, 2010
Matt, you have impacted so many lives in such a positive way and the value of that is just priceless.
Andy Waite
August 20, 2010
Matt,
I will be forever indebted to you for giving me the opportunity to come to Houston to join your firm and am proud to be part of the Simmons "alumni" base which touches every part of the energy industry. You always had the courage of your convictions and believed in the power of original analytical thought even when it suggested results different from conventional wisdom. You were a champion of many philanthropic and educational causes who have all benefitted greatly from your boundless energy and enthusiasm.
Ellen, Wheeler, Abby, Emma, Winnie and Lydia,
I am truly sorry for your loss.
Barry Donovan
August 20, 2010
Matt was the greatest of bosses, mentors and friends. Through example, Matt infused:
* Intellectual curiosity and initiative
* Passion and self-pride in work
* Generosity of monies and time
Importantly, Matt would not be defined as an investment banker. Instead, Matt was an active member of the investment banking community, the energy community and the Houston community. Matt was a great man, and true friend to all those who knew him.
Ellen/Wheeler/Abby/Emma/Winnie/Lydia, Knowing the positive influence that Matt had on everyone may not bring closure to you; this is understandable. Know that you are in our prayers.
Kandice Fergus
August 20, 2010
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
David Baldwin
August 20, 2010
Matt, your vision and enthusiasm for our industry was inspiring and steadfast. You believed in "energy people" when it was not popular to do so, and provided wisdom and guidance to most of the successful companies in our industry. You also created great career opportunities and growth for many (including me) employees (and their/our families) that followed your wisdom and conviction....Thank you very much.
Jeff Jacobe
August 20, 2010
Matt,
Thanks so much for giving me the opportunity to work with you early in my career and for all the guidance and support you have offered over the years. You were a valuable mentor and a great friend. I will miss you and our conversations greatly. To Ellen and the girls, I just want to say how sorry I am for your loss. Take comfort in the fact that your husband/father lived as full a life as anyone I know and was a great person.
Rob Fredericks
August 20, 2010
Among his many qualities, Matt was a great leader and motivator, and I will always be grateful for the two years I spent on his team. I can recall little more inspiring than meeting him for the first time and being infused with the enthusiasm and energy he brought to every conversation. While Matt's passing is a great loss to all who have known him, let's also remind ourselves that we will always carry the benefit of the positive attitude he instilled in us. Thanks, Matt.
Thomas Bates
August 20, 2010
Matt's contributions to the oil and gas industry are indelible. He created a world class investment bank that bears his name and became the leader in the sector. He was an inspiration to all of us who worked with him.
Later on his insightful research challenged world views on energy. His views on peak oil culminating in the publishing of "Twilight in the Desert" will long be remembered.
He will be sorely missed as a friend and mentor to a generation!!
Doug Madeley
August 19, 2010
Mr. Simmons,
What a great legacy you leave behind! I will always remember your wonderful charisma and charm. You're family has so may great memories to hold onto and my thoughts and prayers go out to the Simmons' family.
Mike Soulier
August 19, 2010
Dear Matt: I will miss our association and your great stories. Nobody could tell one better than you. Thanks for the the gift of your friendship and all the wonderful memories. What else can I say after almost 50 years of knowing you and 44 years of marriage, prompted by the master matchmaker? I think I just passed the point of "Peak Friendship"!
Julienne Herne
August 19, 2010
My prayers and thoughts are with the Simmons' family during this time of loss. Mr. Simmons leaves a legacy of his love and passion for his family and his work. He made his vacation and his vocation the same. Such a brilliant visionary I will never forget. It was a pleasure to work with him for the past 5 years. His presence will be greatly missed.
Aaron Russell
August 19, 2010
Mr. Simmons will be greatly remembered, for his love and kindness. I witnessed it with all his help in my mother's treatment.
August 18, 2010
With Matt's passing we are all reminded of the worth of enduring friendships. His smile, his warmth, His contributions to the country, the world, and sigma chi will be sorely missed. I am glad I had such a wonderful friend. Monetta and I send our condolences and prayers to the family. A great man will be missed by many but his legacy will live on
Wendell and Monetta Smoot
Laura Russell
August 18, 2010
'Today brings the end of our trip,
our time as a group is now over, in a blip.
We stand here in this office, waiting for you to come or call,
can’t face the fact we won’t see your smile or walking down the hall.
We loved the way you answered the phone...a simple HELLOOO,
it always rang an enjoyable bellow.
Your generous heart we will and I for sure will never forget,
and always willing to make a bet.
Farewell is a feeling of something that’s gone.
Farewell is a memory that stays for too long.
Farewell is everything that’s been left unspoken.
You said you would stay, and now we are broken.
That’s why we say today you’re our farewell friend,
I wish you farewell, no matter how tough in the end.
We will reach for what you want and never give in,
an energy a bust from the ocean to begin.
So long, we submit you a farewell.
No matter how hard to let you go, we’ll see you again,
whether it's in our memories or in the end.
Never forget those who love you,
we wish you a farewell.
To those left behind looking back today,
remember the good times we had here with your staff or family we say.
Farewell, farewell to our farewell friend...
David and Susan Stayner
August 18, 2010
Matt's influence and friendships extend throughout the world. We hold dear our relationship with Matt from his Davis County roots, to Sigma Chi, and to happy visits in Boston, Maine, Houston, and Santa Barbara. Our condolences to his wonderful family.
Cheeks
August 18, 2010
Lived in the house with Matt for 5 years. He was a wonderful Role Model and great friend.Never forget our eagertrip to see "The Man who shot Liberty Valence" in 1963.
Richard Kinnersley
August 17, 2010
Matt was a wonderful pledge brother and leader in the "famous fourteen" pledge class. I have many wonderful memories of our pledge class antics together but also a tender appreciation for his friendship and loyalty that endured through these many years. I rejoice in the knowledge that through the One in who's sign we were priveleged to be bonded we shall see one another again.
We pray for peace and understanding to rest upon his wonderful family.
Rick and Pam Kinnersley
Andy Gallegos
August 17, 2010
What a great friend with a great sense of humor. I'm sorry I didn't get to meet his family but I send my sincere condolences. Class of '63, Sigma Chi
August 17, 2010
Shared many Econ classes, double dates and hours at the Sig House with Matt. He was bright and influential without being self important. He cheered us up by his presense. In Hoc , Matt.
Jay (Termite) Anderson
Carl Busque
August 17, 2010
Matt was a true liberty and truth fighter.
You are NOT forgotten.
semper fidelis.
C.B
Quebec city Qc
Brent and Diane McMaster
August 17, 2010
We send our love at this tender time. The Simmons family have set the bar a bit higher for those whose lives have been touched by them. Thanks for the friendship over these many years. The memory of Matt will burn brightly.
Gordon Knight
August 17, 2010
Matt built lasting personal relationships wherever he went.
As a fraternity brother, he was the celebrated, imaginative organizer of fun and mischief. Matt was a true friend. Our condolences to his family.
Robert Whitby
August 15, 2010
I've enjoyed knowing Matt since his days at HBS where we became friends. Lots of connections in London, Dallas and New York since those days. Matt was due to speak at my HBS mini union to be held this October in Maine, Matt and Ellen's adopted home. We will miss his charm and intellect.
Peace and comfort to Ellen. Fondly, Robert and Kathleen
Gunnar Henrioulle
August 14, 2010
America's loss, for not understanding the import of Matt's warnings on the impacts of the oil Interregnum. We spoke back at the time of release of "TWILIGHT"; he honored me with a phone call to talk about America's "Plan "B", and heard my suggestions regarding rebuild of local railway links. Matt encouraged the effort, but said "political not technical hurdles are the greatest difficulty..." Rest In peace, Matt.
Angelia Elmore
August 13, 2010
What moves through us is a silence, a quiet sadness, a longing for one more day, one more word, one more touch, we may not understand why you left this earth so soon, or why you left before we were ready to say good-bye, but little by little, we begin to remember not just that you died, but that you lived. And that your life gave us memories too beautiful to forget.
What a privilege to know and work for Matt. You have my sincere condolences on the loss of your husband, father, brother and friend. I too share in your sorrows.
Angela Marlow
August 13, 2010
Words cannot express my sorrow for the loss of such a wonderful man. I had the honor of working with Mr. Simmons and he was truly an inspirational man. He had so much passion for his work but even more passion for his family. My heart and prayers go out to Ellen and his family. He will be truly missed.
Josie Don
August 12, 2010
To have worked with Mr. Simmons for 23 years was such an honor; his passion for the energy industry never seemed to cease. He was a magnificent man, my mentor and a great friend.
To Ellen and family, my deepest sympathy, I will miss him dearly.
Anne Mari Labiosa
August 12, 2010
I had the privilege of working with Matt at Simmons & Company for 8 years. It truly saddens me that he has passed away. Please know that Ellen and his daughters are in my prayers and thoughts.
Molly Heal-Davis
August 12, 2010
I knew Matt years ago when he and Roger Boyer were at the University of Utah and working part-time at Zions Savings & Loan. I have never forgotten his keen intellect, great sense of humor,enthusiasm for life and his devotion to his brothers and sisters. He was a unique guy when he was 21 years old. My heartfelt sympathy to his wife and daughters, whom I have never met. Sincerely
Boots Nowlin
August 11, 2010
What a multi-talented accomplished man! He will be greatly missed. So glad I had the pleasure of knowing him.
Deepest sympathy to Ellen and the girls. He was very quick to speak of his love for all of you.
August 11, 2010
I had the privilege of working for this enormously extraordinary man for over a decade. His love for Ellen and his five girls overshadowed all his other passions, of which there were many. His intellectual curiosity knew no bounds, likewise his generosity, not to mention his business acumen and courage in pursuit of the truth. Matt was a giant in every way that truly counted. My deepest sympathies and heartfelt prayers go out to Ellen, Wheeler and Millen, Abby, Emma, Winnie and Lydia. I mourn your great loss alongside you.
- Judy Gristwood, Houston
Toni Stephenson
August 11, 2010
Ellen, Emmet and I are deeply saddened by Matt's death. We will miss his intelligent conversations and his vision. Sincerely, Toni Stephenson
Constantine Alexander-Goulandris
August 11, 2010
Matt was a great guy and will be missed. His intelligence, intuitiveness laced with a great sense of humor will leave a great void.
He was a man of great integrity, strength and the embodiment of a gentleman.
My profound sympathy to his family and loved ones.
John Boyd
August 10, 2010
We shall miss Matt, a very good man. I send my condolences to his family. Sincerely yours, John A. Boyd
Jim Moriarty
August 10, 2010
We have lost one of the great minds, and great men of our times. I meet Matt and his wonderful family years ago and have always delighted in knowing all of them, especially his 5 aodreable daughters. Rest in peace, Matt, we will miss you.
Laila Lavely
August 10, 2010
Matthew Simmons...a hero of our times. Rest in Peace good man, rest in peace.
August 10, 2010
I have never met Mr Simmons but based on his dedication to his life work, his true belief in working toward a sustainable honest and frank energy world and the amazing young women he has raised I know he was a gem in this world and will be sorely missed.
Bill and Shari Elmer
August 10, 2010
We are so sad. We are praying for your family.
August 10, 2010
Sorry to hear of the passing of Matt Simmons . I will always remember the conversations that I had with him last month in Camden Me. He was a good man and will be missed by all. Dr.Kent Hammond Greenville, S.C.
Millie Crocker, Celtic Harper
August 10, 2010
Matt will always be remembered for his enthusiasm and support of the Camden Farmers Market. May God give you His comfort and peace in your time of sorrow.
Sayo Martin
August 10, 2010
A great man whose love for his family, this planet and his life's calling truly resounded. To the Simmons Family - May God grant you comfort and his ever abounding peace. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
August 10, 2010
Matt, his keen mind, energy and far-reaching insights were always accompanied by his loyal friendship and straight-forward integrity in all dealings. To Ellen and the daughters, as well as to the entire Simmons family, we send our heartfelt condolences and prayers at this unexpected turn of events and stand ready to assist in any manner needed. We will always honor Matt's name and memory, at the same time drawing strength from his example.. May the Lord bless you and keep you. Ralph and Julienne Thomson
Earl Linehan
August 10, 2010
So sorry to hear the sad news. Will always have great memories of our days at HBS and working with Matt on our reunions. He was the best. Our hearts go out to Ellen and the family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Martin Walke
August 10, 2010
Ellen, the girls and the entire Simmons family are in our thoughts and prayers. May Matt rest in peace with Roy and Tibby and all the saints in Heaven. The Martin Walke Family
Alma Robinson Moses
August 10, 2010
Matt was truly a giant in his field and a wonderful husband and father. We share your grief and mourn the loss of this extraordinary light in our lives. Alma Robinson Moses & Family, California Lawyers for the Arts
Ben Poteat
August 10, 2010
We need more thinkers like Matt to explore the worlds energy crisis.
My thoughts are with you and the family and how painful it is to lose your loved one. Please accept my deepest sympathy. May God's love and comfort be with you and the family.
“For this is the will of my Father, That everyone that beholds the Son and exercises faith in him should have everlasting life, and I will resurrect him at the last day.” John 6:40
Henryk Zaleski
August 10, 2010
Rest in peace.
Victoria~ VZj
August 9, 2010
In restful peace
our condolences to his Family
God Bless you Matthew Simmons~
Amerval Du Planty
August 9, 2010
Matthew has left a wonderful legacy for the World, my deepest condolences to the family
K. Johnson
August 9, 2010
To the family of Mr.Simmons.I am really sorry for the loss of your beloved one.Though I did not know him personally I am pained to even know of his passing away.May the scriptures in the Holy Bible give you hope and encouragement at this hard time and even for the future.At Daniel 12:2a it says "And there will be many of those asleep in the ground of dust who will wake up..."
E. Smith
August 9, 2010
My sincerest condolences to the Simmons family. Matt, as a visionary in the energy industry, will be missed by many indiviudals, as well as his country.
August 9, 2010
Our country has lost a great citizen and our industry a great friend, a valuable contributor and an always forward thinker. Matt will be much missed. Paul Hilliard, Badger Oil Corp.
R Golay
August 9, 2010
To the the family of Matthew Simmons - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow, I know that Matthew will be missed by many.
Barbara TELLER
August 9, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
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