Steve Simmer

Steven "Skins" Robert Simmer, 69, of Erie, Pennsylvania, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, November 11, 2025. Born on September 1, 1956, Steve spent his life in Erie, a place that held his roots, his memories, and his community.
Over the years, he built a long and respected career in auto sales, known for his hard work, loyalty, and the kind of charisma that could light up any room. But above all else, Steve's heart belonged to wrestling. A wrestler himself, he poured his passion for the sport into coaching his son, his grandsons, and countless young athletes throughout the community. For Steve, wrestling was more than competition, it was a way to teach strength, discipline, and perseverance. His legacy will live on in every young person he inspired to give their best, both on and off the mat. When he wasn't in the gym, Steve could often be found cheering on his beloved St. Louis Cardinals, cracking jokes, or offering one of his famously good pieces of advice. He had a way of making everyone feel like family, always ready with a story, a laugh, or a helping hand. Steve was the life of every gathering, the steady voice of reason, and the friend you could always count on.
He will be deeply missed by his children, Dylan Simmer (Sasha Taraski), Richard Gorski, and James Gorski; his brothers and sisters, Ken Miller, Kathy Miller, Charles A. Simmer Jr. (Alice Simmer), Allen Simmer (Natalie Simmer), Scott Simmer (Tracy Simmer), and Michael Simmer; dear friend Sandy Maul; and by many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who loved him like one of their own. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles A. Simmer and Norma Simmer; step-son Dennis Keith Fleming III; and siblings, Jim Miller (Patti Bartlett), Michelle Simmer, and Archie Simmer.
Friends may call at the Dusckas Funeral & Cremation Services Harborcreek, 5151 Buffalo Road (at Hannon Rd. in Harborcreek Twp.), on Monday, November 17th, from 3 pm until the time of the Funeral Service there at 7 pm, conducted by Rev. Jean Kuebler. A private interment will be held at Wintergreen Gorge Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Iroquois School District Foundation, 800 Tyndall Avenue, Erie, PA 16511. Condolences may be sent to www.dusckasfuneralhomes.com.
Those who knew Steve will remember his laughter, his work ethic, and the way he showed up - for his family, his friends, and his wrestlers - every single time. His strength, humor, and heart will continue to echo in the lives he touched. "Once a wrestler, always a wrestler" - and Steve wrestled through life with courage, love, and joy until the very end.