Robert “Bob” Simmons of Boise, Idaho passed away on June 27, 2024. Bob battled various health issues, including chronic kidney disease. His courageous approach to these health issues was an inspiration to many.
Bob was born in Boise, Idaho on June 10, 1950 to Louis Simmons and Virginia Reed. In 1968, Bob joined the Marine Corp. and though he was honorably discharged in 1969, he was very proud of his time as a Marine. Once a Marine, always a Marine. After he was discharged, he joined the Army Guard where he served for 11 years.
In 1973, Bob married Patrcia Redmond. This marriage lasted 16 years and gave him 2 daughters, Julie born in 1974 and Lorie born in 1975. After that marriage ended in 1989, Bob met the love of his life, Lori Allen and they married in 1990. Lori brought into this marriage three girls, who Bob immediately embraced. Shortly after they married, the family moved to Nampa, where they lived until 2021 before moving back to Boise.
Bob worked as an auto-body repair man for many years. He enjoyed his work and took great pride in a job well done. Later in life, he worked as an elementary school custodian.
Bob was a devout Christian and had incredible faith. His greatest joy in life was being a husband, father and grandfather. He enjoyed body-building, camping, all-you-can-eat buffets and spending as much time with his family as he could. He never met a stranger and could talk to anyone. Bob had a giving heart, even when he didn’t have much to give, he gave anyway. Over the years, he enjoyed volunteering at the V.A. and was a member of various veteran groups. He especially enjoyed mentoring soldiers who struggled with PTSD. Bob had the ability to find joy in everyday things and was often found dancing to oldies music while he worked. He had a deep voice and a boisterous laugh; you always knew when he was in the room.
Bob is survived by his wife Lori, his daughters Julie Simmons, Lorie (Shane) Bolen of Boise, Ami (Dana) Smith of Easton, PA, Erin Yannarella and Ashley (Chris) Heath of Middleton, ID. 13 grandchildren and 1 great-granddaughter, his siblings Carolyn (Rick) Martinez, Pam (Saied) Motevasselani and Scott Rose. Plus many other beloved family members and friends. He is preceded in death by his beloved grandfather and his parents.
A committal service will be held, 3:00 pm, Friday, July 26, 2024 at the Idaho State Veterans Cemetery, 10100 Horseshoe Bend Rd., Boise, Idaho, with a reception to follow.
Semper Fi