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Richard Girard Simmons, age 86, of Cadillac, Michigan passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 16, 2024, at Munson Medical Center Traverse City, MI following a brief illness. Richard was born September 6, 1938, in Royal Oak, MI to Charles Simmons and Catherine (Roe) Simmons, he was predeceased by both of his parents and an older brother Ronald Simmons. After attending Wayne High School in Wayne, MI Richard enlisted in the Marine Corp in 1959, where he traveled the world as an embassy courier and achieved the rank of Lance Corporal before being honorably discharged in 1962. The lessons learned in the Marine Corps benefitted him as he continued the path that led him to begin his construction career and apprenticeship in the carpentry trade. Richard married Doris M (Mounts) Simmons on February 12, 1966. He is survived by his wife Doris of Cadillac, MI and daughters Catherine Forbes of Fort Wayne, IN, Amber Radtke (Chris) of Trenton, MI, Ronda Denyer (Miguel) of Garden City, MI, and Tonya Rincon (Paul) of Wayne, MI. Their daughters blessed them with eight grandchildren Nicole Forbes (deceased), Jeremiah Forbes Fort Wayne, IN, Matthew Forbes (Amy Blough) Fort Wayne, IN, Amanda Garman (Nick) Auburn, IN, Matthew Destrampe (Jessica Allison) Carlton, MI, Steven Destrampe (Krystal) North Ridgeville, OH, David Denyer Garden City, MI, Zachary Moreno Ann Arbor, MI. They also had the pleasure of welcoming two great grandchildren Connor N. and Rylee M. Garman of Auburn, IN. As a journeyman in the Carpentry trade, he applied to Ford and was hired into the Michigan Truck Plant in Wayne, MI where he spent the next 31 years working to provide for his wife and family as a proud union member. In their earlier years he and his wife were quite active in their church family and also enjoyed bowling, cards, shooting pool, civic memberships and the friendships developed with those activities. Following retirement to their home in Cadillac, MI Richard and his wife enjoyed the many outdoor pursuits the area offers including four wheeling, hunting, and shooting. These things were shared with their daughters and grandchildren throughout the years with him sharing his passion and knowledge of firearms and sportsmanship. Richard and Doris continued to enjoy and actively participate in social activities and new friendships through their memberships of the Moose Lodge and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. They enjoyed travelling and exploring Upper Michigan and other parts of the country. Richard spent a lot of time just enjoying the view off his back deck or the dining room table inside during the winter months. Watching nature and relishing the peace and quiet was one of his favorite pastimes. Richard lived simply in his later years enjoying the time with his beloved wife of 58 years looking forward to the next visitors. His children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and many friends all enjoyed the fruits of his labor while also making memories. Richard worked, lived and loved fiercely. He knew no other way. He was extremely loyal to his family and friends and will be sorely missed. A celebration of life is going to be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at the Wayne Masonic Lodge, 37137 Palmer Rd., Westland, MI 48186 from 3:00 - 7:00 PM to honor his memory for those who love him. Arrangements provided by Wolfe-O'Neill Funeral Home, our family serving yours.

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Richard Girard Simmons

September 6, 1938 - December 16, 2024