Ronald Lee Simmons, Sr., 68, Sioux City, IA, passed away Monday, June 20, 2016 at a local hospital, following a year and one half courageous battle with cancer. Per Ron’s wishes, he was cremated. A memorial service will be held at 12:00 noon, Friday, June 24, 2016 at Morningside Lutheran Church, with Pastor Darrin Vick officiating. The family will be present starting at 10:30 a.m., on Friday at the church. Arrangements are under the direction of Waterbury Funeral Service of Sioux City.

Ron was born on March 1, 1948, the son of Madeline (Kermit Johnson) and John Simmons, Ron was a life-long resident of Sioux City. His early childhood was spent with his many buddies playing baseball, making forts, getting into mischief and having a great time. After high school at Central High, he began his employment career as a printer for the Sioux City Journal. He followed that with a 38 year career with the City of Sioux City, where he enjoyed positions at the Airport, Parks Dept., Water and Sewer Division (manager), and finally settling in the Engineering Division as the Utility Project Coordinator.

Ron retired Feb. 2013 and began thoroughly enjoying retirement with hobbies which included: fishing, playing snooker/pool, bowling, horseshoes, golf, reading, watching sports, and woodworking. He also enjoyed spending time with his family and many friends. He loved sports and coached his children’s activities in baseball, softball, bowling and hockey.

Ron was a member of Elks Lodge 112 and snooker clubs - RATSO (Royal and Ancient Tree House Snooker Organization), BYOB (Back Yard on the Boulevard). He had a great sense of humor and was a loyal friend, wonderful husband, father, step-father, brother, uncle, and grandfather. He lived every day with gusto, with positivity, and with joy. He will be greatly missed.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Margaret; children, Terri Harper of Sioux City, IA, Ron Simmons, Jr (Becky) of Sioux City, IA, Jill (Marc) Obbink of Sergeant Bluff, IA, Shane Nielsen of Sioux City, IA, and Farrah Preston of North Sioux City, SD; siblings, Sharon LaTourette (Frank) of Sioux City, IA, John (Joan) Simmons of Omaha, NE, and Cathy (Dave) Wanzer of Lawrence, KS; several grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents and step-father; infant son, Eric; brothers, Terry Simmons, Darrell Simmons, Odbert Simmons; and sister, Leah LaTourette.

Special thanks to the June E. Nylen Cancer Center (their staff is amazing); superior Home Health Care nurse, Lacey; and all of the caring doctors and nursing staff from various medical facilities.