Bowden Stanley Simmons

Bowden Stanley Simmons
WASHINGTON - Bowden Stanley Simmons, also affectionately known as "Bowden the Brave", 9 months 11 days, was granted his angel wings on Monday, August 8, 2016, at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital in Chicago, IL with his loving parents at his bedside, following a long and courageous battle with Leukemia and HLH (Hemophacytic Lymphohistiocytosis).
Bowden's life would seem too short to many, but those who were touched by him understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. His bright smile could melt the hearts of those around him. Bowden possessed bravery, strength, and an ability to overcome incredible odds. With his courage he led us to believe that each day is a blessing and an opportunity to create lasting memories. He could spend hours playing peek-a-boo with his lovey, cuddling with mommy and daddy, and listening to grandma sing him his special song. He was always so happy and enjoyed sitting up in his chair, being outside, big sister's tickles and daddy's "musical creations".
With Bowden's passing we remind others that his life is one to be celebrated. Although we will miss him everyday, especially his winning smile, he will forever remain in our hearts. Through his teachings about life, we were able to create wonderful memories and it has been an honor and privilege to be his parents. We are so thankful Bowden's sister Harper met her brother so she can hold dear the memory of Bowden. She will always and forever be his big sister.
Bowden leaves behind many wonderful caregivers that provided love and support that enhanced his quality of life. Bowden's love extends to his wonderful nurses, nursing assistants, doctors, social workers and child life therapists who advocated and cared for him tirelessly. There is a special place in our hearts for Doctor Elaine Morgan and his bestie Doctor Lish Lenzen, because of their continual dedication, love and support, Bowden was able to survive some of his toughest medical challenges.
Bowden is survived by his loving parents, Adam and Christine Simmons and big sister Harper of Oswego; paternal grandmother Terri Lloyd of Mapleton, along with uncles, cousins, extended family, close friends and neighbors.
He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Gregory and Janice (Sheppard) Lamb and his aunt, Elizabeth (Lamb) Howard.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Ronald McDonald House Charities or the family's YouCaring page at www.youcaring/BowdentheBrave.
A visitation for Bowden will take place on Monday, August 15, 2016, from 5:00 P.M.- 8:00 P.M. at Dunn Family Funeral Home with Crematory, 1801 Douglas Road Oswego. An additional visitation will take place on Tuesday, August 16, 2016, from 5:00 P.M.-8:00 P.M. at Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory, 2075 Washington Road, Washington.
A memorial Mass will be held on Wednesday, August 17, 2016, at 10:00 A.M. at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Washington. Father Stephen Willard will officiate. Inurnment will be at Resurrection Cemetery in Peoria. Bowden's memorial website is available at www.deitersfuneralhome.com, where online condolences may also be sent to the family.