Robert "Tony" Anthony Sims

Robert “Tony” Sims, Maj. (Ret), PhD., died at home on Tuesday 3/28/17, surrounded by his loving family. He is preceded in death by his son, Austin Sims and wife, Darcie Sims. He is survived by his wife, Rosella Sims; daughter, Allie Franklin; granddaughter, Darci Franklin; son-in-law, Greg Franklin; and brother, Jimmy Benka. Tony was born in El Paso, TX in 1948. He served honorably in three branches of the US Military for over 30 years: Navy, Air Force and Army. Tony grew up in Albuquerque, NM, where he played tuba in the band and football. He earned a BS in Political Science from the University of New Mexico, a MHA from Texas Women’s University, and a PhD in Public Health Administration from Glencullen University. He was an avid camper, teaching two generations of Girl Scout Troops orienteering and fire building skills. Tony served two terms as President of the Burien White Center Rotary and was well known for playing the tuba and string bass in the Puyallup Valley Community Band, the Legion Band and the Ozzie Furhman Swing Band. Three years ago, Tony retired as the Chief Executive Officer of Grief Inc. In his retirement he discovered his passion for classic cars, dressing the part with his wife, Rosella, as they cruised in their 1941 Packard. A celebration of his life will be held at 2 PM on April 29th at the Washington State Soldier’s Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to one of the following charitable organizations: Rotary Music4Life, The Compassionate Friends, Inc. or The American Cancer Society.