Donald R Simmons

Donald Ray Simmons passed away on March 25, 2022. He was born to William and Opal Simmons on January 27, 1937. He was raised in Oakville with his two sisters, Jeanette White and Joan Eddy. Don, who was known as “Donnie” graduated from Oakville High School where he was active in all sports, as well as band, FFA, Student Council, and served as ASB President. After graduating high school, he worked at Hardel Plywood Mill before taking a job at Puget Sound Power and Light, where he worked in accounting for 31 years. After retiring from Puget Power he worked 5 years at the Washington State Attorney General’s Office.

Don and Kati married on October 30, 1975. They lived in Olympia for 17 years before moving to Elma, where they lived for 25 years. They moved part-time to Baker City, Oregon in 2013 and eventually settled there. They hosted many picnics and family events over the years. Don loved all things related to weather, and enjoyed sports, hiking, camping, and bowling. He was a devoted husband and father who had a deep love for his family.

Don is survived by his wife, Catherine (Kati), his children Jeffrey Simmons, Colleen Simmons, Erin Carpenter (spouse Kyle), Kevin Simmons, Kurtis Simmons (spouse Angeline), and Emmanuel Simmons (spouse Lisa) as well as grandchildren Michael Simmons, Rachelle Jones, Tara McCray, Tamiah Mitchell, and great granddaughter Mercy Simmons, as well as his sister Joan Eddy. Don was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Jeanette White, and his daughter Lisa Anderson Simmons.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on April 30, 2022, at the Abundant Life Church, 214 Young Street, Elma, Washington.