Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Bruce Edward Simmons
Bruce Edward Simmons
Obituary
Guest Book
Bruce Simmons Obituary
Kathy Simmons awoke to the smell of onions cooking.
Onions? At 5:30 a.m. on a Saturday?
Downstairs, her husband, Bruce, was happily sautéing 200 of them.
That weekend, as a trustee of the Maroons Soccer Club in Ridgewood, N.J., he would oversee food concessions at the annual tournament. Mrs. Simmons realized, laughing, that the passion he brought as a partner to Sandler O'Neill & Partners compelled him to seek the next level, even when it came to hamburgers and hot dogs. He wanted sautéed onions too.
Mr. Simmons had taken a year off in college to try being a chef, and had honed that skill. He could make a surprise spice cake for his wife's birthday, or a treat for his daughter Emma, 2. And he could teach Meghan, 13, to make beef Wellington.
He brought the same enthusiasm to coaching soccer. Mrs. Simmons saw this 41- year-old man running with his son Jack, 10, and the other little boys as if he were a boy himself. Their team reached first place last spring, but it was never just about winning. He wanted each child to do his best, have fun and learn how to recover from a loss. Smiling, he put onions into crockpots. "You're mad," she said, and loved him for it.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Matt O'Neill
September 11, 2024
There are so many words to describe Bruce. Friend, compassionate, humble, leader are only some. I always said that of all the people I knew, I'd follow him into a foxhole any day. I admired him and saw him as a role model for so many of us.
jann kindel
September 11, 2021
jann kindel
September 11, 2021
jann kindel
September 11, 2021
We did the 9/11 memorial WOD today... every year, I do it and think of Bruce and pray for the Simmons family. We will never forget. Sending love and light.
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
David Simmons
September 10, 2019
On the eve on the 18th year after 9/11/01 and as I sit in my office at Merrill Lynch I cry...Bruce I miss you so much.. Mom is struggling more this year then in past years. I pray for her to find peace.... I will be with you tomorrow and will be praying that all who were murdered on 9/11 are with God and at peace.. I know you can see the 9/11 memorial and it truly is a tribute to everyone from that fated day, now 18 years ago. Every year I hear from so many people in your honor.. I intend till my last breath to never let anyone forget...May the peace of the Lord be with you forever... Hope your hanging wit Dad...DSS
Barbara Godlewsky-Horutz
September 11, 2017
On this anniversary of 9/11, may you find peace and walk in sunshine, you are missed and loved by family and fellow classmates. You are an angel watching over us, I will always remember the good times at HHS.
Parker Mueller
July 3, 2017
I never had known Bruce, but I do recognize the pain of the tragedy called 9/11. I know the family and I can't imagine what Kathy, Emma, and the rest in their family. I know it is nearly 16 years late to say my condolences, but better late then never. I wish my condolences upon the Simmons family from now and the rest from here. I was born on October 15 in 2001, just a few weeks after this tragedy. My father was directly across the street and saw the first plane fly into the first tower so I understand the pain that this has caused. I now wish my condolences to all those on the 104th floor which housed the offices for Sandler O'Neil & Partners as well as the rest of the victims and families that were involves in the tragedy on September 11, 2001.
Matt O'Neill
September 10, 2016
15 years and it hurts like it was just yesterday. He made everyone better just being with him. Bruce was one of those guys who everyone admired, trusted and wanted to be like. I think about him often.
Judy Tomlinson
September 11, 2013
It breaks my heart for the Simmons family still to this day. God Bless.
Matt O'Neill
September 10, 2013
We'll never forget. Thoughts and prayers to Kathy and the kids.
September 13, 2011
My 5 yr old son placed a flag in honor of Bruce this last weekend. When I enlarged the photo I could see his name. We are so deeply sorry for your loss.
http://www.santacruzsentinel.com/ci_18873215
Blessings
Matt O'Neill
September 9, 2011
I had so much respect for Bruce. He was an inspiration to me and many others. I miss him still. I had so many good times with him either doing business together or out for drinks. He came up to visit me in Connecticut one time when he was up visiting clients. He made me feel special, taking time from his visit to come and see me. He was one of the best. Sadly, it was at Stacey's memorial when I got to meet Kathy. She was so wonderful, even at her time of sorrow. I think of Bruce, Kathy and their kids often. Peace.
Bob Dougherty
May 2, 2011
Thinking of the entire Simmons family today.
Susan Lloyd Baumann
September 24, 2010
I met Bruce,Kathy and their three beautiful children back in 1996. I spent time showing them some real estate on the beautiful island of Daufuskie in South Carolina. I remember riding the boat with them to the island and thinking "What a beautiful family...I hope that I will be able to have what they do one day." The love and laughter made such an impression on me...I saw Bruce's picture on a sixty minutes documentary years ago and think about him and his family often. My thoughts and prayers have been with you ever since I learned of his passing.
Gina
September 19, 2010
I visited the WTC Memorial in 2008 and purchased a band with Bruce's name. The small museum was just not enough, so moving and powerful. When I came back to CA I was almost killed in an accident. As a CHP Officer I am faced with challenges every day: helping others cope with loss and helping to "right, wrongs" and now I was fighting for my life...then my job. I had a severe head injury that they thought I might never be the same and rushed family/friends to the hospital thinking I wouldn't make it. Later, I even talked with the Firemen who were at the scene of my accident (whom I worked with everyday before the accident) and they thought I was going to die.
What really motivated me to move forward was finding the bracelet with Bruce's name on it. After the accident things were moved around so I thought it was lost.
I didn't know who he was but I thought this man probably got up every day and worked hard. I used my "imagination" of him and he helped me finish the long journey I had to traverse to get back to life again. I am pleased to read the postings so I would have a chance to know more about him, and I am besides myself to discover my "idea" of Bruce was a reality. Coaching soccer, motivating others, helping people to not let a loss keep you down, ... it's weird how a random bag I chose that day had another human beings name on it, who was so like me. Thank you Bruce!
Jann Kindel
September 14, 2010
My Dad, Tip Kindel (Ramsey) knew Bruce... I think they played tennis together in Ridgewood. We lost Dad 2 years ago to pancreatic cancer... and I'm sure Bruce was there in Heaven to welcome him and challenge him to some doubles!
I wear a bracelet with Bruce's name on it, and continue to pray for your family... I'm so sorry for your loss. God bless you and keep you safe and in his healing hands... Know that we will never forget.
Brian Varroney
September 7, 2010
I knew Bruce when we both lived in Allamuchy. He was always a good friend and a good person. I recently found out what happened, my prayers are with you Kathy and with Flo,David, Steve, and Missy. May God be with You. Your Friend Brian Varroney
Debi (Thoms) Sadowski
September 11, 2009
I knew Bruce, we went to high school together. I believe we had some classes together too. Bruce was popular in school, but I also remember he was active in the golf club and a bit of a clown. My heart goes out to the family and I light candles every year on my pourch in Bruce's memory & the other people who died on 9-11-01.
Thanks to Tony Russack many children now get scholarship awards in Bruce's name, a great way to honor Bruce. God Bless you Bruce, you will never be forgotten.
Jim
September 11, 2007
I never met Bruce Simmons but I carried a white ribbon with his name printed on it today during a memorial service / 10K run. It was an honor to carry the name of a man who touched so many lives as I have read from the pages of this guest book. My heart and prayers go out to all of you.
kristine
June 9, 2007
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
P Tabbernor
March 11, 2007
In memory....
Tom C
February 12, 2007
I've never met Bruce but I was honored to receive a scholarship award in his name in 2002 at HHS. Hopefully, you will be happy to know that I am now going to grad school in Washington, DC so that I can find a good career in counter-terrorism.
-Thanks Bruce!
Deb and Rick Cascario
September 11, 2006
To The Simmons Family: We will NEVER forget. David, we think of you and your loss each and every day. May God Bless you all and keep you safe. You will always be in our thoughts and prayers.
rebecca jones, age 12
September 11, 2003
dear mrs. simmons,
i contacted you a little over a year ago when my school held a special memorial service for the 9/11 victims. I was fortunate to be the one to receive your husbands' name and i placed a flag in his name and honor on our courthouse lawn. i am now in 7th grade and i will always remember having the privilege of doing this. i hope it might lighten heart, to let you know that i will never forget his name or the sacrifice both he and your family has endured as a result of this national tragedy. may god bless you and your children.
Todd Pfeiffer
September 11, 2003
Kathy and Family,
I went to school and played football with Bruce at Hackettstown High School. After Bruce went back to finish college, I lost touch with him, but my last memory of Bruce is one that I look back on and smile. You might remember going to the Big Apple Circus. I hadn't seen Bruce in maybe ten years. When I got to my seats with my son Jackson and my wife, I discovered that Bruce, yourself and your son Jack were sitting right in front of us. It was great to see Bruce, and brought back some great memories. Bruce was always someone who could make the best out of whatever happened. Even when Jack got sick during the show, Bruce took it all in stride. I was so happy to be part of the dedication that Hackettstown did for Bruce at the football field and was honored to be on the field with many of his friends, family and teammates. I wanted to "sign" this book just to let you know that Bruce or as I still remember him Sy, was someone who made a lasting impression on so many people, and I will not forget him. I wish all the best for you and your family.
Sincerely, Todd Pfeiffer
Mary Ellen Decker-Bonker
February 2, 2003
To the family of Bruce Simmons,
I did not know Bruce well as he was a few years older then I, But his sister Missy was in my class at Allamuchy Elementry school. Bruce was in my sister Paula's class and she would come home and tell us about Bruce's antics. She told us how he was the only one on the 8th grade class trip that got to meet Richard Nixon( He was found with a camera in the white House when all were told that they could not bring them in.) The Secret Service took his film, but he did get to meet the leader of the free world.Not a bad trade off.
I am sure he was the same kind of Man as he was a boy, Full of life and suprises and will be missed by all the people he touched in this life as well as those that will only know him from stories told by other, A life this wonderful and full of love and laughter will never end as long as those in his life never stop talking about him.
god bless you all and keep you safe in his hand.
Mary Libby
November 5, 2002
I didn't know Bruce but I know his mother Flo. My heart goes out to her and her loss. I think of her often and hope that time heals her pain. Bruce will always be in her heart. My best to her and Bruces family.
Morris Scott
September 12, 2002
The last time I saw Bruce was when I got together with his brothers, sister & friends in his Mom's neighborhood to help Flo (Bruce's Mom) move into her new home. Flo was so proud of her family & would always talk about what a great chef Bruce was. My heart goes out to the Simmons Family. God Bless You.
John Mackie
September 12, 2002
Kathy,
It is a year since the events of last September and barely a day has gone by where I don't think specifically about Bruce, our shared experiences and the motivation he continues to supply my life. I will always remember Bruce for his infectious smile and the way he would greet me every time we were together. He had an uncanny way of making you feel at ease and welcome in his company. Bruce helped me get my first job on Wall St., invited my family to join his company outing at West Point, and was always quick to offer a cigar given the appropriate occasion (Fishers Island with Bob). It was during the reception for Bruce at Mt. Carmel that I learned of his passion for cycling, a sport I knew very little of at the time. Subsequently, not only have I taken up the sport, but Karen, Bob and Sue have also purchased bikes. In conversations with many of his colleagues I always come away with the same thought that Bruce was one of the 'good guys' maybe the best. My warmest regards to you, Meghan, Jack and Emma always. John
Michael Pender
September 11, 2002
I will never again smoke a cigar or ride a bike without thinking good things about Bruce. God Bless Kathy, Meg, Jack and Emma.
Mike
Joe Loftus
September 11, 2002
To Kathy and the Children..
Bruce was one of the nicest, unassuming and sincere gentlemen the good Lord has ever placed on the face of this planet. I was lucky enough to spend a number of years working beside him at Lehman Brothers, and he remains in my thoughts & prayers everyday. God Bless you and keep you.
Joe
Therese Powers
September 10, 2002
I didn't have the pleasure of knowing Bruce, but did have the fortune of knowing Kathy when I was a member of the Ridgewood Jr. Womens Club. She is a warm, vibrant person and I was heartbroken to read of her loss in our newspaper. I haven't seen her since the tragedy, but want her to know I think of her often.
Fred McCarthy
September 9, 2002
It was a joy to be a neighbor of Bruce and his young family when they lived on our block in Ridgewood. As busy as he was, Bruce always found time when we met to say hello and often share stories about family,coaching youngsters or his work.It was clear that he truly cared about his family, friends and community.Bruce will be remembered and missed by many, and his family will be remembered in our prayers.
HAACK Jean-Baptiste
September 8, 2002
Hi, I'm a 22 years old student in France, and I saw an interview of Kathy on a french tv programme this evening. I was quite overcome and that's why I decide to sign this guest book. It's really difficult to realize how much you can have been hurt : france is so far. I was not consious of your pain before seiing your interview for french tv. I could not help myself with criing a lot and that's why I have tried to find a way to contact you and show you how much I've been hurt by your testimony. I can't really express what I feel because it's difficult for me to translate my emotions further in english. I whish you a lot of bravura to continue to live and educate your childrens.
Excuse me for my english.
I really think of you and you can be sure that thanks to you I will never think about the attacks as I did it before.
God bless you.
Carol Latronica
September 3, 2002
Kathy, Meghan, Jack and Emma-
I had the wonderful opportunity to work with your mother at Niagara University. She was a woman of great compassion and I new she would find the right person to have a family with. I have often thought about the fun and laughter that Kathy brought to the residence life staff. From all that has been said about your husband and father, he too, was full of life and compassion. I know he was made a very special angel that terrible day on earth, but I hope that he continues to live through you and all you do.
Carol Latronica
Niagara University
MS '81, MSEd "83
Katy Ainsworth
August 30, 2002
Im so sorry to Bruce's family. I hope that everything goes well with u....I am an eigth grader at my school (Central Middle School) we are doing things about September 11, 2002 and we each pick a name out of the people that died on September 11. I picked Bruce Simmons...I am very sorry
Nola Pedersen
July 3, 2002
Aloha and God Bless Bruce and his family.
May 17, 2002
I worked with Bruce Simmons back at Merrill Lynch (1987-91). I was assigned to be his position clerk. Bruce not only took me under his wing and taught me his job but my own as well. He encouraged me to participate on the ML Softball Team where we had many laughs. That is what I will remember most about Bruce, his smile and his quick wit.
I then went on to become a NYC Firefighter, and subsequently lost many other great men. I felt ashamed at not viewing the civilians missing until much later and then discovering Bruce's name. To Kathy, I am sorry for your loss.
God Bless you Bruce.
April 29, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL MAN..BRUCE EDWARD SIMMONS AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS LOVING FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK...AMEN
Kathy Simmons-Deitch
April 12, 2002
I was scanning the names when I saw the name Simmons. Just want you to know that you are in our hearts and prayers.
God Bless
Kathy
Heidi Wood
March 26, 2002
I did not know Bruce but I know his brother David and his family.I am there dry cleaner.
Bruce and everyone that was killed in the attacks Sept. 11th will always be in my eyes Heros and now angels.The angels will always protect us in so many ways.May your angel always be with all of you.
Heidi Wood
Heilyn Cleaners
[email protected]
Garey Simmons
March 18, 2002
I just came upon this site by happenstance. I typed the name Simmons in to see what I would find. I am touched to read about this wonderful person, Bruce Edward. I also have a son named David. I have been grieving since December 29, 2001 for my own loss. Piper Simmons, my firstborn, 26 years old, died along with his wife Rose and son Sean (3) in a car crash in Russia. They were missionaries and humanitarian aid workers. I feel for all the people who have suffered sudden loss like this. I haven't known the depths of despair until this. I have questioned God a lot and haven't heard a lot, but I know there is a greater power at work than we can understand. One day we shall know, even as we are known. Thank you and God bless you.
David Simmons
March 14, 2002
My brother and best buddy Bruce is truly in a better home but my heart hurts very deeply for his loss and for his beautiful family. Please accept my deepest prayers for all of you and your families that have so deeply touched the Simmons family. May God Bless you... David Simmons
Alan Moss
March 11, 2002
Bruce,
My son Stephen, a recent graduate, interviewed with you
and others at
Sandler O'Niell on the 104th floor
of the south tower on the Friday (9/07) before the attack. It was through your efforts at James Madison University that he was there. He was to have called you
on Tuesday (9/11) to get a status
update. But it didn't happen. We
watched in horror on TV the events
of that day. All those he interviewed with were killed. The
magnitude of the tragedy is overwhelming and I shall never forget what happened. We are still
greiving. Thru this web site, I
learned of your wife and family. The effect of the sudden loss of a
father on his children is immense and cannot be measured. I will keep
your family in my prayers forever.
Matthew Feeney
January 16, 2002
Bruce was quite simply the most amazing person I ever had the opportunity to be around. He was Enthusiastic, Determined, Honest, and Caring. He made every one feel important and unique. He took time to listen and did what ever he could to help a friend. I will miss Bruce every single day of my Life.
God Bless,
Matthew
Suzanne Fusco Muller
January 10, 2002
As a fellow alum of Niagara University, (College of Nursing '79) the prayers of my family are with you and your family. God bless.
JACK & PATTY McDOWELL
January 3, 2002
DEAR KATHY, MRS. SIMMONS & FAMILY,
WE WERE SO HAPPY TO HAVE HAD THAT VISIT WITH YOU. WE THINK OF YOU OFTEN & REMEMBER YOU IN OUR PRAYERS ALWAYS.
LOVE,
THE McDOWELLS
Joanne Boroski
December 31, 2001
We miss you Bruce and pray for Kathy, Meghan, Jack and Emma everyday.
Ana Runnion
December 26, 2001
I teach in a catholic school and every day we pray: O Compassionate God Embrace the soul of Bruce Simmons in your eternal love. Amen. Our church has a book of hope and that is how I got Mr. simmons' name.
Teresa Jahn
December 12, 2001
We are very sorry for your loss of Bruce. Our hearts are with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Kevin O'Brien
November 30, 2001
From Your childhood.....we still remember.
Liz Iacampo-Palumbo
November 28, 2001
We at Hackettstown High School knew what we were doing when we voted you Most Likely to Succeed - you succeeded at everything! Your family is in all of our hearts...
Patricia Ramsey
November 11, 2001
Bruce - I knew you only as a name on my Morgan Stanley account statements and a voice on the phone who cheerfully resoved problems over the years. My condolences to your loved ones.
Lisa Hunter
October 23, 2001
Bruce, your many friends at Banc Stock Financial will always remember your kindness and great sense of humor. You will be greatly missed. Our best to your wonderful family.
tony reilly
October 21, 2001
Bruce,
You were always the reminder for me that there was real people in our business, real people that cared for their family and that made friends of everyone who crossed your path.The family that you were always so proud of are now a family that will always be on my prayer list.
God bless your wife and children always.
Tony Reilly.
Maryellen Hillman
October 15, 2001
To my brother-in-law,
Bruce Edward Simmons,
God Bless.
Showing 1 - 57 of 57 results
Make a Donation
in Bruce Simmons's name
How to support Bruce's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Bruce Simmons's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored