Obituary of Eugene Simmons

Eugene Randolph Simmons was born on December 17, 1924 in Harrisburg, PA. Died April 23, 2016 at Henry Ford Village where he had lived for 11 years. His beloved wife and best friend of 67 years survives him.... They raised a family together in Trenton, MI where they lived for almost 50 years. Their children are Ruth Doak (Jim), David Simmons (Maryann), and Paul Simmons (Lori) . He is survived by his grandchildren Jeffrey Davis (Michelle), Michelle Shaw (Adam), Michael Campbell, Michelle Campbell, Christopher Simmons, Mark Simmons, Matthew Simmons, and Eric Simmons. He is also survived by 8 great grandchildren. His brother William predeceased him, and his brother George survives. Gene served in the United States Army in Europe during WWII, rising quickly to Seargent. He completed high school in Detroit after the war ended. He met his wife through his brother, and Gene used a desk attending night school that Dolores used during the day at Northwestern High School. They married in January of 1949, had children and moved to Trenton Michigan in 1958, to work for Prudential Life Insurance for 25 years. Gene was a hard worker, loved people and talking to them. He was an amazing, supportive and fun father. Played baseball with all the neighborhood kids, and his own. Didn't miss many swim meets while his kids swam, and even when David coached swimming. Gene's other love was playing sports. He was an avid runner, winner of age group 5K's and 10K's, and loved running with his sons. He played on several softball teams after retirement and although he was a great pitcher, usually played outfield because he could run faster than others. He enjoyed golfing and always said he got his money's worth. He started playing tennis again when his daughter started as an adult. Was always ready when she called for a game, played for years with the Trenton Seniors tennis group, then he started a group at Henry Ford Village. Gene and Dolores loved to travel the United States, and spent many winters in Panama City Beach, Florida where they made many friends, loved the beach and dad could exercise all year round. In 2005, he and Dolores moved to an apartment in Henry Ford Village where Dolores continues to live in the memory care unit. They absolutely loved their years there and all the new friends and activities. Gene said regularly, that he thanked God every day that they moved to Henry Ford Village, where they were happy, and now Dolores is always taken care of. Gene has chosen cremation, and a Memorial Service will be held on Friday April 29th at 11:00 am at Henry Ford Village Chapel. Donations may be made to the charity of your choice or one of Dad's favorites. Salvation Army, Disabled Veterans, Pinkerton Center for the Blind, Heart to Heart Hospice, Henry Ford Village Benevolent Fund, or Christ Episcopal Church Dearborn, Michigan.