Allen Simmons

Allen David Simmons, age 72, of Watkins, passed away Thursday, June 29, 2023 at his home. A viewing/visitation will be held on Friday, July 7, 2023, 2 pm to 6 pm followed by a twenty-one gun salute and flag presentation to family at Ertl Funeral Home in Watkins. Gathering of remembrances and stories will follow at the Red Goat Inn.

Born July 2, 1950 in Watkins, he was the son of the late Orwin and Lucille (Adolph) Simmons. On September 3, 1977 he married Sandra (Anderson) Simmons who preceded him in death on July 28, 2011.

Allen was drafted into the United States Marine Corps in 1969-1971. He fought in Vietnam receiving a Purple Heart. After returning home from the war, he moved to Indiana and worked as a mason and met the love of his life, Sandra. In 1977, they moved to Watkins, MN. Allen became a member of Ironworkers Union Local 512 in St. Paul for a career as an iron worker. 

He could be found fishing on the many lakes he enjoyed, keeping some questionable sizes, but always pursuing a meal. He went on many hunting trips to spend time with lifelong friends making memories and filling his freezers. Allen loved to garden and his crop would often feed the town of Watkins. He was the best at bartering with fish and could not resist a good deal when he saw one. 

Allen would travel around the country visiting his two daughters and spending time with his grandchildren. He also would not pass up an opportunity to be in any kind of raffle or sports board with his son. His greatest love was his three children and many grandchildren. Time with his friends was never missed and often some of the best memories he had. 

Allen filled any room with his big laugh, big smile, and the best storytelling you could get. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him. 

He is survived by 1 son: Orwin Aaron Simmons of Richmond, MN and 2 daughters:  Dacia (Michael) Francis of Robins Air Force Base, GA, Brittnay (Whitney) Davis-Simmons of Belding, MI.  Siblings:  DuWayne (Marilys) Simmons of Sauk Rapids, MN, Franklin (Irene) Simmons of Santa Maria, CA, LeRoy (Sharon) Simmons, of Watkins, MN, David (Kathy) Simmons, of North Pole, AK and Jeanene Brough, of Salem, Indiana. Grandchildren: Trevor, Audrey, Georgia, Stella, Ariana, Greyson, Everett, Asher, Liam, Benson, Kayde, and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Orwin and Lucille Simmons, wife, Sandra Simmons, sister, Shirley Keller, brother, Howard Simmons, nieces Christine Simmons, Louie Fuchs and brother-in-law David Brough.