Darren Richard Simmons

Darren Richard Simmons went to be with the Lord on February 19, 2024 after a long battle with cancer. He died as he hoped to, on his couch with family and friends surrounding him. 

Darren was born on January 20, 1966 in Portland, Oregon to Daryl and Irene (Tori) Simmons. They moved to Anchorage, Alaska when Darren was two years old. He gained two little sisters before his family moved to North Pole, Alaska. While Darren was in school, he enjoyed being involved in the drama program.

Darren graduated from North Pole High School in 1984, and then started volunteering at the North Pole Fire Department where he learned that he loved working in service occupations.

Darren welcomed his daughter, Kathleen Chloe Elizabeth Simmons, into the world in 1988. He joined the army in 1992 to try to provide a better life for his girl. He worked as a medic until he was honorably discharged. He ended up leaving with a disability, but he still enjoyed jobs serving others. He worked in the lunch program at a school in Texas. He also worked at a pet store where he enjoyed helping people with their pets. Darren loved animals and was very sad to leave his cat, Midnight, and his dog, Cleo, behind. 

Darren will be missed. He was heartbroken when he realized that he would no longer be around for his mother. After his father died five years ago, he made it his personal responsibility to help take care of her. He fought hard to be there for her until his earthly body gave out.

Darren is survived by his mother, Tori Simmons; daughter, Kathleen (Dustin) Walters; sisters: Dawn (Richard) Bennett; and Holly (Shane) Garrett; uncles and aunts: Bill (Patty) Chase; Dave (Liz) Simmons; and Donald Simmons; grandchildren: Kami; Mika; Robert (Crosby) and Dustin; Vanessa; Harlan (Walters); nieces: Regan Garrett; and Hallie; Ashley; Brylee (Bennett); nephews: Matthew; and Jesse (Bennett); grand-niece, Aspen Bennett; and numerous cousins.

Darren was preceded in death by his father, Daryl Simmons; his grandparents: Bill and Eunice Chase; and Harold and Laura Simmons.

Funeral Services will be held Monday, February 26, 2024 at noon at Bethlehem Covenant Church in Wheaton with Pastor Tim Shekleton officiating. Pianist will be Cheryl Shekleton. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service time at the church.

Interment will be in Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon on March 1, 2024 at 2:15 p.m. Pallbearers will be Dawn Bennett, Holly Garrett, Shane Garrett, Bill Chase, Shawn Niebolte and Lyle Brecht. Military Rites will be provided by the Merton Dale American Legion Post #80.