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Lee Simmons Obituary
Lee Simmons (”Pap Pap” to many) passed away on December 1 suddenly and unexpectedly following surgery. We are all left with a feeling that we have lost the center of our universe. Lee was loved by all who knew him. There was never a kinder, sweeter, friendlier, more thoughtful gentleman. So many have said that Lee was their favorite person in the whole world. A day would not go by without him performing an act of kindness for someone. How hard it is to lose such a beloved father, grandfather, great grandfather, friend, and acquaintance.
Family and music were the two most important things in Lee’s life. He spent many hours each week with his grandchildren, Ty and Drew, often playing on the floor, sitting at the piano, and running around outside. When he wasn’t with them during the day, you would probably find him talking at his kitchen table or on the phone with another family member. At night you might find him playing his bass fiddle. He always looked forward to Monday nights at Friendship Circle.
Lee and his family (his wife Helen and children Mario, Glenn, and Nancy) moved from Santa Barbara to Eureka in May 1970. Lee went to work at the County as their personnel director. He left the county in 1980 for HSU where he was the personnel director until his retirement in 1993.
While living in Humboldt County, Lee played in many bands including Redwood Rhythm, For Dancers Only, The Pistol River Dixieland Band, Hall Street Honkers, and Lee Simmons and Friends. Over the years, he was a member of the Southwest Rotary Club, a member of the Arcata Rotary Club, and a founding member of the Arcata Sunrise Rotary Club. He served on many boards including the California State and Federal Credit Union and St. Lukes.
Even in his younger years Lee was an avid and accomplished musician. He played trumpet in the high school band and had his own band in high school. After high school, Lee served two years in the Texas-Louisiana Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. A notable event in Lee’s life was when he drove across country from his home state of Pennsylvania to Utah where he would attend BYU, where he received his bachelor’s degree in business and a minor in music in 1953. Lee also served in the Army during the Korean War. Lee loved to play sports, especially baseball and golf, and he loved to follow his Pittsburgh Steelers and BYU Cougars.
Lee’s loved ones who passed away before him include his wife Helen, his son Mario, his Dad Robert, and his Mom Florence. Lee is survived by his adoring children and their partners: Lynn Simmons (and Sally), Sheri Simmons (and Ranna), Glenn Franco Simmons (and Kathleen), Becky Lee Simmons (and Winnie), & Nancy Vizenor (and Troy). Lee is also survived by many other loving family members including his grandchildren Sarah Simmons, Chad Wallace, Chelsey Wallace, Kristin Wallace, Ty Vizenor, and Drew Vizenor, as well as his sisters Joy and Bev.
Everyone is welcome to join the family in remembering Lee at a memorial service on Tuesday, December 9th at 11 am at St. Mary’s Church in Arcata. Everyone is also welcome to a gathering at Baywood Golf and Country Club following the memorial service (we will be there until around 4 pm...drop ins are welcome). The family will have a private graveside service but there will be a visitation on Monday at Pierce Mortuary from 10 to 1.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to his favorite charities, Garfield School Booster Club or Hospice of Humboldt.
Please sign the guestbook at www.times-standard.com, click on obituaries.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Lee Simmons
Dorrie Hill
January 3, 2009
Glenn,Nancy,Family and Friends,
I'm so sorry for your loss. It`s
everyones loss. He was such a great man. When I was out there, every
place we went we would bump into
his friends, and I mean every where!
He loved his family so much,his music
his friends and life in general.
He will be missed so deeply by me
and every life he touched. He was my rock. He will always be in my heart.
I was so looking forward to our visit this year with my kids. I`m so
lucky and so proud to be his niece.
Uncle Lee will never be forgotten.
Thank you Uncle Lee for all the memories.
Laura Knittel
December 17, 2008
These comments speak volumes about the wonderful man we had the privilage for so many years of calling our neighbor. He touched so many lives through his many acts of kindness, thoughtfulness and caring. He was so very proud of his kids and grandchildren who brought him much joy. Take great comfort in all of your memories...he, Helen and Mario left us with many of our own which we will always treasure.
Bob & Marilyn Westberg
December 17, 2008
We already miss Lee at our Friendship Circle Dances and other places where he played. He always tried to catch our eye with a friendly little wave while playing. Such a gentleman. Thank you Lee for your friendship. We know the Lord has taken you in with Him and your wife. Happy Eternity.
Richard Giovanetti
December 17, 2008
Dear Nancy and family. Your Dad was the sweetest man I had the pleasure of knowing in my 20+ years of living in Eureka(Reyes Y Casas Viejas). My thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time.
Helen Hoopes
December 16, 2008
Dear Family,
I am a first cousin to Lee but only got to be around him a few times. (Joy and I are close.)
I was so sad to know that Lee had died. I loved him very much. He could always make me laugh and be happy. I had looked forward to seeing him again. I just wish it could have been more often.
Dear Simmons Family, I hope you will always know that he was truly loved by his Hoopes cousins. We will be praying for all of you and send our love and sorrow at his passing. I know that we will see him again! I am sure our parents have welcomed him home!
With much love, your cousin,
Dave Simpson
December 15, 2008
Lee you were always the guy I looked up as an Administrator at Humboldt State. As Personnel Director and as a genuine "good guy" you could always be counted on for support when needed. I and many others will certainly miss your great smile and positive attitude. I'll see you on the other side Lee. A friend forever.
December 12, 2008
December 12, 2008
December 12, 2008
Rebecca Simone
December 10, 2008
The neighborhood will just not feel the same without Lee's pickup crusing by, his forever smile and wave and of course Monroe, the faithful sidekick! He will be missed by so very many.
Dewey Knittel
December 10, 2008
Lee, Old Friend,
If ever on this earth, anyone has ever prepaid for their ascendancy to heaven, it is you. Due to your kindness, friendship and willingness to help anyone in their time of need, be it major or minor, your willingness and desire will always be remembered.
Thank you for your friendship to our family and the neighborhood over the years.
-The Knittels
Tom and Gwyn Maxon
December 9, 2008
Gwyn and I were shocked and saddened to hear of Lee's sudden passing. We had the honor of a gentle hug at the Fresh Freeze about a month ago - Lee was nursing some sore muscles after clearing some downed branches at home.
It was always a pleasure to see Lee whether a customer at the music store, as a neighbor in Freshwater or as a band member at a dance job.
We will truly miss him and his kind smile.
Nick DeRuyter
December 9, 2008
My heart goes out to the family. Lee was just a great person from the time I met him at HSU through the many dances I attended where Lee was playing. He was such a warm person with a smile from the heart and a positive spin on life. He will be missed here on earth!
Carol Kinser
December 9, 2008
So many people will miss Lee. He was always so upbeat and I will miss him so much playing for the Friendship Circle when we talked about our golf games. I had Chelsea in my classroom and so he would always keep me updated on what the kids were doing. What a wonderful human being!
Vivian Tracy
December 9, 2008
I only met him once, but the short time that I talked to him left a lasting impression on me of the great man that I know he was. I feel lucky I was able to meet him at all. My prayers are with you & your families, Glenn and Nancy.
Milt Boyd
December 9, 2008
Very sad news to hear that Lee is no longer with us. It was my privilege to work with him when he was director of personnel at HSU. He was a real problem solver who had the best interests of HSU employees uppermost.
Clare Nelson
December 8, 2008
Dear Lynn and Sally,
I am so sorry for your loss. Though I did not know him, I read that wonderful obituary and clearly Lynn, you have many of your dad's same qualities. Thinking of you at this time.
Clare Nelson
kenneth daer
December 8, 2008
I first met Lee & Helen in the late 70's as part of the Alley Cat crowd and we remained friends since. Some time after Lee retired from HSU he wanted something to do and he became a part time delivery driver for my dry cleaners. Needless to say, he was the best one ever and he loved getting out and about and talking to our customers. All of us at Norman's loved Lee and Helen and the only comfort Nancy, Glenn, their families and friends can take in this sad time is that they are together again.
Kenneth Daer
Karen Suiker
December 8, 2008
I am so sorry to read of Lee's passing. I worked with him both at Humboldt County and then at HSU and saw him out and about in the community from time to time. He was kind and caring and always smiling, especially when he would talk about his love for his music. I hope you find some small comfort in your cherished memories -- his spirit will live on and on.
Mike Goldsby
December 8, 2008
I am shocked and saddened to hear that Lee is gone, because that was too soon from my perspective.
Lee was personable and genuine. He remembered your name and circumstances of your life, your work, your family, that other people never noticed in the first place. He was always very kind to me and my family. I will really miss him.
Mary Ellen Evans
December 8, 2008
To Lee's Family: What a special person your dad was! He was such a considerate, thoughtful and kind person and I'm so glad I had the privilege of knowing him. I know that you will miss him terribly but you have such wonderful tributes from people who knew him and years of happy memories to hold onto and to share with each other. My deepest sympathies.
Rees Hughes
December 7, 2008
I too had the privilege of working with Lee at HSU . . . not only in his capacity as Director of Human Resources but during those periodic times he returned to help during a transition or to assist with a backlog in that office. He always rolled up his sleeves and did whatever necessary. I appreciated Lee's humility . . . he was never too important to answer the phones or cover the front desk. Similarly, I can remember calling Nancy's house only to learn that Lee was down on the floor with his grandkids. For me, I will remember him always for the twinkle in his eye and his irrepressible optimism.
Joshua Kinch
December 7, 2008
Freshwater has had its share of quality people as long time residents. Mr. Simmons is right at the top of the honor roll. A classier fellow is not to be found. His warm spirit was a treasure, and i fell so very sad that i can never enjoy it again.
His families loss must be tempered by the certain knowledge that his was an old soul, certain to ascend to a glorious afterlife above.
Bill and Gloria Brooks
December 7, 2008
Lee was a special person, we would talk music and football!
Sorry for your lost.
Janina Shayne
December 7, 2008
He was always the center of calm in any storm. We worked together in Personnel at HSU, from 1978-84; his sense of humor and raucous staff meetings made work a pleasure; he often “checked up” on me when I moved to a different job on campus. Through the years, Lee has been a light in many tunnels, for many people. Our paths crossed in odd places. Helen saved me in the real estate world, Lee at the university and life in general, Mario in anything requiring strength (Hey, Mario!! was one of our private jokes, as he was always available to take care of things). What a huge and compassionate heart Lee carried, with unquestioned loyalty; he never forgot a name, or a kindness; I will never forget his laugh. He adored his large family. Nancy, Glenn, the First Daughters, Kristin, and the larger family, your Lee is loved by many. What a special man, to affect us all as “our” Lee, with wonderful memories, whether the acquaintance was short or old. You are in our thoughts as you heal from this great loss; gather our composite strength and love to help you along the way.
Lora Frediani Canzoneri
December 7, 2008
I first met Lee when I was hired by Humboldt County in 1973. I also remember him well from the short time that I worked at HSU. With his sparkling eyes and warm, bright smile, it always felt good to be around him. May happy memories of Lee comfort his loved ones.
Buzz and Judy Webb
December 7, 2008
I had the privilege of working with Lee at HSU for many years. He was always competent, friendly, humorous, gentle--and a "gentleman".
I loved to see him playing the big standup bass in local bands. He enjoyed it so--and he was very good. The one thing that sticks in my mind about Lee is his smile. Hang in there lee, I'm right behind you.
Buzz Webb
Becky Enberg
December 7, 2008
I have known Lee for about 30 years through dancing to the different bands he played with and always look forward to his smile and little wave. He was such a sweet man.
Pat Knittel
December 7, 2008
Nancy, Glenn and Family,
I am so terribly saddened to hear about your father's passing. I have so many childhood memories of your family. Your Dad was always cheerfully caring for everyone around him. He was such a bright light in this world.
I will miss seeing him driving his truck with his cap on when I visit Howard Heights. In recent years he has kept an eye out making sure my folks are well. We will forever appreciate all his kindness and will truly miss him.
Love,
Susan Monaco
December 7, 2008
To Our wonderful Sisters,
We were so saddened to hear of the passing of your Dad, Lee. With love, all things endure, for they live on in the hearts of those who have loved them. Your Dad is now an angel in heaven and will be with all of you always. Don't neglect the pennies you will be finding now! :)
we love you very much,
Susan, Paul, Cindy and Will
Glenn Goldan
December 7, 2008
Through the years, I've cross paths with Lee and on each occasion his smile, warmth and genuineness struck me as very unique. The last time I saw him was on stage at the Taste of the Holidays fundraiser recently. As in years past, I’d give him a nod while he was playing and he’d give me the Lee Nod back. That nod was always amazing and I’ll remember the good man behind it.
This is the day my beloved Dad legally adopted me.
December 7, 2008
Don Andersen
December 6, 2008
I met Lee When I belonged to Sunrise Rotary in the early '90s. I have always looked forward to our meetings since then - a kind man, a true gentleman and someone who valued every person he met.
John Heckel
December 6, 2008
The house speaks it's sadness.
The dog no longer barks.
No Lee to place garbage cans with on chilly Friday mornings.
No more shouts across fence in admiration of beautiful Humboldt county weather.
Howard Heights will miss him.
We, his geographical family mourn and feel a great and vast loss.
Remember us Lee!
larry Brown
December 6, 2008
I will miss Lee, spent a lot of time playing drums with him, he was a fun guy to play music with and just sitting around talking after the gig.RIP in peace Lee.
suzanne kafel
December 6, 2008
Nancy-- I knew your father from the days when I was working at a local cleaners in Eureka. He was "on call" driver. He had a very warm heart and always came with a huge smile. He always talked fondly about his family. When I knew him he had his poodle Noodles. They were like two peas in a pod.
Suzanne Kafel
Pat and Willis Gipson
December 6, 2008
I am so sorry to hear about Lee's passing. He was truly a gentleman and one of the nicest people I have ever known. It is hard losing a family member, especially during the holidays. Our sympathy and warmest thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
Susan Pitlock
December 6, 2008
Nancy and family, I am so sad to have read about your dad's passing on. I saw him about a year ago when he dropped off your mom's jacket to be cleaned (he found it in his truck behind the seat). I have so many fond memories of him not only from the dry cleaners, but from horse shows and just knowing him. Wonderful, sweet man. He will be missed by many. If you need help with anything or just want to talk, I am here! Hugs to all.
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