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William Simms Obituary
Simms, William A. "Bill" Died 7/16/2011. Survived by wife, Susan; daughters, Eilene (Danny), Simone, Veronica, Melissa; seven grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; five siblings; many nieces and nephews. Memorial Mass, Thursday, 10am at Sts. Peter & Paul Church, 3900 Pierce St., Wheat Ridge, CO.
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Memories and Condolences
for William Simms
Richard Smith
July 14, 2020
He was a true mentor. I was lazy and dd not apply myself. When i wanted to be in his advanced mathematics class, he first said no because I had not demonstrated desire or capability. He told me I had one chance to convince him. That opportunity changed my life and I will never forget him
Lloyd Nicholson, Jr.
August 16, 2011
I just learned of Bro. Leo's death. He was our home room teacher in the 8th grade at Catholic High School in New Iberia, La. I only learned of Bro. Leo's death while inquiring with the Mullen staff as to how I might contract him. Our class of 1961 is planning a class reunion for our 50th homecoming activities. I was wishing to invite Brother to share this reunion with many of his former students. Those of us that were fortunate enough to experience his love of life, his academic skills, his religious motivation, his enjoyment of particition in athletics with us after school was truly representative of the Lasallian education. From the class of 1961 of Catholic High, we extend to the Simms family and our fellow brothers of Mullen "ACTA NON VERBA" would indeed describe Bill" Brother Leo" Simms.
Pat McBride, '65
August 9, 2011
Bro Leo was always an imposing figure in the hallway as we changed classes. He and Brothers Adrian, Barnaby, Simon, Joe, Coaches Hickey and Felnor, and Mr. Van Wazer made Mullen a very special school. They were an inspiration to me and gave me many fond memories of my two years there. May God bless each and every one of them.
T. J. DeSoto
July 28, 2011
Brother Leopold's discipline for math and his skills as a "life coach" will never be underestimated. I appreciated his style and understand his strategy for each Mustang's success. A great math mind and a quality individual.
Kurt Watson
July 28, 2011
Brother Leopold accepted the challenge "Mullen Builds Men" literally. I don't know that I've met another man who could read people as well as he did. Whether I was struggling with math or life, he embodied the perfect mix of mentor, teacher, and disciplinarian. He built into my life with the gifts God gave him and for that I will always be grateful. I extend my deepest sympathies to Bill's family. Class of '70
Richard Haber
July 25, 2011
Susie and Melissa, I have just heard of Bill's passing and extend to you and the rest of the family my condolences. There is a double connection here, having taught Melissa back in the 80s and then being awarded the Crouzet/Simms Award as teacher of the year in 1998 at Mullen. I'll always have a connection to this jovial, sincere man of integrity and honor. May he rest in peace.
richard Smith
July 24, 2011
Words are insufficient to describe the life lessons I learned from Bro. Leo/Bill. In recent years, it was wonderful to see him at alumni events. I look back and am happy that I told him then, face-to-face how his lessons changed my life. He was a heck of a good math teacher and the fact that he loved his job, and us, is the testimony of his gifts he imparted to us. Richard Smith, '70
Rupert Burtan '84
July 23, 2011
Mr. Simms kept me on track in Trigonometry and the hallways. He was always helpful and generous with his time. I have great memories of him.
Dan Hamilton '66
July 22, 2011
I have very fond memories of Brother Leopold from my three years at Mullen. To me he was far more than a teacher. He was especially helpful to me during a very difficult time my sophomore year. I will always remember his humor, his support, his wisdom, and his firm but fair guidance. He made a difference...Thank you Brother Leo!
Rick Maloney (Class of '69)
July 22, 2011
Brother Leopold was my 9th grade algebra teacher in 1965-66, and trigonometry a few years later. Forceful personality, and a great sense of humor. He kept us in line, but always there was an Irish gleam in his eyes, telling us (while chastising us for classroom antics) that he didn't really think we were headed for a life of crime. God bless you, Bill Simms.
July 22, 2011
Bill, Brother Leo, was a great example of what Mullen stood for in the days I spent there in the middle 60's. He was serious and intense, joyous and jovial, fun to be around and demanding, one of the guys and one of the teachers, all at the same time. He was a curious mixture that made Mullen a very special place in the 60's and I hope continues today. I am so sorry I missed the service. Bill B '67
Rick & Betty Steck
July 22, 2011
Brother Leopold was an inspiration to alot of us in the Class of '62. His knowledge of his subject and especially of his students made us all better men. May he rest in peace. Our prayers and thoghts go out to Susan, an outstanding teacher herself, and the Simms family.
July 21, 2011
he was a great teacher. the smeltz family,
Mark Hartig
July 21, 2011
What sad news this is. I fondly recall the "feuds" he and his great friend, Frank Sferra, would wage - especially on on St. Patrick's Day! And, does anyone else remember how he absolutely COULD NOT draw those "squiggly" brackets when chalking an equation on the blackboard?
Great man, great educator, and so fondly remembered by this thankful alum from the Class of '68.
My sincerest of sympathies to his family and many close friends.
Bill Giddings
July 21, 2011
I got to see Bill in action when I was a student at Mullen in the late '50s. A lot of energy and a wonderful sense of humor. When I returned to Mullen as an administator I got to 'know' him again as an adult friend. His energy level had not dimished and he continued to be an amazing teacher for his students and a wonderful advisor to me. May he rest in peace and in the palm of God's hand.
Mike McCabe
July 21, 2011
A great teacher and friend who could always get his Irish up. Loved by students and parents. John (66) and Mike (68) McCabe
The Palladinos
July 21, 2011
Mr. Simms has and will always be in our hearts and memories. He was truly a wonderful person - one of kind.
John Lake (Class of '87)
July 21, 2011
Mr. Simms was one of my favorite teachers at Mullen, he taught me so much about math and always kept me smiling. May he rest in peace.
Alexander Burks
July 21, 2011
Mr. Simms was one of the great ones. I learned a lot from him and his teachings both on the subject of Math and life. Class of '90
Bob Denning Class of 1970
July 20, 2011
I was just thinking this past week of one of my favorite teachers who could teach me about the love of math when math has always been a struggle for me. Brother Leo was a loving disciplinarian who could share his love with his unique smile. I still remember his face in the halls. Wonderful memories. My deepest sympathies to the family of a wonderful man.
Rick Hays '70
July 20, 2011
When I reflect upon my years at Mullen there are a number of very good teachers who come to mind but Bro. Leopold was an exceptional one and an even better human being. He was a wizard at teaching math and equally competent at mentoring young kids. A true blessing to have had the privilege to know.
July 20, 2011
I will always have fond memories of Brother Leo (aka BroLeo) as some of us referred to him. He was a great Math teacher and someone who you always felt omfortable talking to. A very grounded man and human being.
John Cullerton - Class of 1971
Merle & Marcia Runck
July 20, 2011
Please accept our deepest sympathies.
JD Wells
July 20, 2011
I smile remembering my time in Mr. Simm's classroom. He taught with a tightened fist guarding a smirk; with reason and humor. One of the good ones!
Class of '89
July 20, 2011
Compassion, Empathy, BIG HEART- ! Bro Leo was the real McCoy, Certainly a huge part of Mullen's Legacy. Adrian, Barnaby,Leo, Simon..and Coach Hickey... Dream Team ! Godspeed Brother Leo ! Simms Family - so sorry for your troubles ! Prayers, Peace ! Kevin O'Connor, '69
Frank Stanley
July 20, 2011
On behalf of the many 'birds' who were students of Mr Simms, thank you for all you taught us, about math and life. Frank Stanley '88.
Mike Hickey
July 20, 2011
I am saddened to hear about the passing of Bill (Brother Leo in my day). He taught me over 40 years ago, and I still have great memories of him. Tough guy with a great sense of humor. One of my alltime favorite teachers. My condolences to the family!
Mike Hickey (Class of '66)
John Mari
July 20, 2011
Bill was a great man and an exceptional motivator. He had a special way of making math exciting and fun. He made every student feel important and had a special connection to all of us. Call of 85, John Mari
July 20, 2011
Brother Leopold was my teacher when I attended Mullen School For Boys in 1958 and graduated in 1959. He was stern and a very good teacher. He made sure you paid attention, but had a great sense of humor. Dick Yoder, class of 1959.. Go Mullen and may he rest in peace.
July 20, 2011
Bill was a GREAT mentor to me while attending Mullen. I have many fond memmories spent as Bill's temporary roommate while Bill was between vocations. Bill was Always a Man with an extreme character with GOD given blessings that helped to inspired those he touched.
John M. Kerr '70
Jeff Luci
July 20, 2011
The world is a better place for having Mr. Simms visit. Although I haven't seen him in years, I'll be missing him. Fond memories of his classes, his advice, and his rather effective brand of motivation will stay with me forever. Of this, I am certain.
David Hillbrand
July 20, 2011
A great teacher who taught far more than just math. He was an exceptionally decent person.
Class of '88
Kyle Keane
July 20, 2011
My favorite teacher at Mullen! Great man and always taught with a sense of humor. He will be missed by many.
DAVE ABELL
July 20, 2011
I am saddened by the loss of a good friend and fellow teacher. Bill is fondly remembered as the gruff voice of reason and discipline at the other end of the 300 hall!
Sean Spellman
July 20, 2011
I am so sorry for your loss, I will always remember Bill from my youth and you all have a special place in my heart.
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