Simmons, Joel P. age 49, of Elk River, formerly of Atlanta, GA, passed away unexpectedly on October 20, 2009. Preceded in death by his parents, Carol & Cary. Survived by his loving wife of 12 years, Cristin and his beautiful daughters, Taylor, Morgan and Kelsey. Also survived by his brothers, Carlton Simmons, Rob (Angela) Richter and Carey Simmons; sister, Becky Medlin and her daughter Jessica; mother-in-law & father-in-law, Dale & Tommie Culver; sister-in-law, Shannon Culver; brother-in-law, JD (Danielle) Culver and many relatives and friends. Joel was a structural engineer at AEC Engineering, Mpls. 'He will be very missed by all and was loved by many." Funeral service 10 AM Thursday, October 29, 2009 at Elk River Baptist Church, 1800 8th St. Visitation 4-8 PM Wed., October 28, 2009 at Dare's Funeral Home, 805 Main St., Elk River 763-441-1212. Interment Orono Cemetery, Elk River. Memorials preferred.
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. I never met Joel, but I am a friend of his brother Carl and his influence and inspiration on Carl is a powerful testament to Joel's loving spirit. I know he will live on in your family's hearts and minds.
God Bless you all,
Shannon Whitney
October 29, 2009 | Commerce, GA
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Lee Milligan
October 29, 2009 | Baldwin, GA
What a delightful person! Just as he carrried a smile he could always bring a smile to those around him. His love for his family (the girls...smile) was an inspiration to all who knew him. Thank God that I had the opportunity to know such a beautiful person for a short time. I believe and know that he is in the presence of our father which are in heaven. His love will for God and family will strengthen you in this time of sorrow and as you go forth in the days to come. Always remember that...
Willie Jackson
October 29, 2009 | Atlanta, GA
Christin, I considered Joel a true friend. We had a lot of good times at work and shared many many laughs. He really had a good attitude and sense of humor.
Even though it is quite a ways to Minnesota from Georgia, the telephone made Joel next door. I won't have that connection anymore. The phone calls were fun and uplifting.
Joel loved you and the children very much and appreciated his friends. His memory is deep in my heart.
Steven Allen
October 29, 2009 | Duluth, GA
CHIRISTINE IM SO SORRY. I DID NOT KNOW UNTIL TODAY. I ENJOYED SEEING YOU ALL WHEN YOU VISTED ME.IM HIS UNCLE MARION.
MARION SIMMONS
October 28, 2009 | MARTINEZ, GA
I am so sorry to hear of your loss as Joel was a super person to work with and I will cherish the memories we had while he worked in our Atlanta office. He certainly will be missed as I always looked forward to him keeping us updated on the family and the girls as you could always tell how much he loved all of you. I wish you and the girls much comfort in the hours and days ahead.
Connie Wilson
October 28, 2009 | Lawrenceville, GA
Becky and I always enjoyed the too brief visits during Larson Engineering Christmas Parties. Joel was one of the best fellow employees, always smiling, quick with humor, strong technically, good ideas, and a friend. He has been missed ever since the family moved to Minnesota. We are happy to have known Joel.
Jim & Becky McDaniel
October 26, 2009 | Dunwoody, GA
Christine, I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Joel from Larson Engineering in Atlanta. We had met at one of the company Christmas parties. He was a great guy and I enjoyed talking and working with him while he was here in Atlanta. The last time I talked with Joel was just before he took his last PE exam. He seemed to be looking for a positive sign that he could do it this time. His memories will be with me forever. God bless you and your girls thru this time.
Mike Kemp
October 26, 2009 | Grayson, GA
Morgan, Kelsey and Family, I am so very sorry about the death of your dad. My heart hurts for all of you! Your Parker Family is there for you in whatever you may need...please don't hesitate to lean on us! Love, Mrs. Vita
Jan Vita
October 25, 2009 | Elk River, MN
