Richard Porter Simmons

1933 - 2021

Richard Porter Simmons

Chandler - Richard Porter Simmons, born July 21, 1933 to Harry Harland Simmons and Mable Porter Simmons passed away on June 19, 2021.

Richard was a devoted and loving husband to his wife of 35 years, Loretta, and a caring parent and provider to his daughter Suzann Simmons Cole and his stepson, Doug Castor (Rochelle). He diligently tried to model his values of responsibility, hard work and devotion to his children.

Richard was born in Ogden, Utah and spent most of his growing up years in Logan, UT with his siblings Ruth Ann Hogan (Dimar, deceased), Steve (Jackie, deceased), and Linda Zimmerman (Ron). He is preceded in death by his parents.

Early on Richard developed an aptitude and love for building things. He became a skilled artisan and craftsman building models and even building a beautiful redwood topped boat from scratch while in high school.

As the son of the DeSoto/Plymouth car dealer in Logan, Richard learned to drive at a very young age, moving cars on the lot for his father. He ran the parts department and was a fabulous mechanic.

After attending Utah State University, he eventually was drafted into the Army in 1955, and was stationed in Seattle and Germany. He settled permanently in Phoenix in the 1960s.

Professionally Richard developed a stable career as a tool and die maker. His reputation for productivity and craftsmanship was well known.

Richard found happiness and love with his wife Loretta who was witness to Richard's kind heart and generosity. Her countless stories of him lending a helping hand to neighbors, acts of generosity and thoughtfulness, as well as his tender care for her, left her with only one word to describe him: an angel. Richard stayed active in his later years, ever the sportsman and precision hand of craft, and twice finished beautiful homes they together cherished. Loretta already misses him immensely.

A private service will be held with family and friends on July 6.