William E. Simmons
October 8, 1930 - September 9, 2017

Madison: William "Bill" Edward Simmons, loving father, grandfather, and husband passed on to heaven to be with Ruth, his loving wife of 61 years on September 8, 2017. Bill was an amazing man who touched so many lives with his humor, smile, and kindness.

Bill was born on October 8, 1930, to William Max Simmons and Anna Marie Westergard in Emma Township, White County, Illinois. He was the first of five (5) children born and raised on the family farm. In January of 1951, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. He served in Korea with the 1st Marine Division. In June of 1953, he married the love of his life, Ruth Bingman. Bill met Ruth when they were both 16 years old and were together until her death in 2014.

Bill attended the University of Illinois, graduating with a degree in Entomology in 1958. He spent his career working for the State of Wisconsin Department of Agriculture and Consumer Protection until his retirement in 1991. Bill was passionate about his career and received recognition for his service to the Agriculture Industry. He also served on the Dane County Board of Supervisors from 1966-1974, choosing not to seek a 5th term.
Following his retirement, Bill and Ruth fulfilled their lifelong desire to travel. They took many trips across the United States and Canada as well as Ireland, Germany, France and other places in Europe. Bill was also a hunter and fisherman, enjoying many memorable hunting trips with friends and family.

Bill is survived by his children, Susan Simmons Brown (David Adam Brown) of Oregon, WI, Scott Simmons (Jennifer Simmons) of Green Bay, WI, and his four (4) grandchildren, Christopher William Brown of Oregon, WI, Kathleen Brown (Galal Salama) of Oregon, WI, Amanda Simmons of Madison, WI and Emily Simmons of Madison, WI.

Bill is further survived by a brother, Jerry Simmons (Connie) of Carmi, Illinois, and sister RoseAnn Stewart (Milton) of Sun Prairie, WI. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Robert Simmons and sister Susie Simmons
.
Bill's greatest joy in life was his family, his wife Ruth, his children and grandchildren. There are so many loving memories of the husband, father, and grandfather he was. We cherished him as he did all of us. Dad, until we meet again, we will hold you in our hearts.

A visitation will be held from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm on Friday, September 15, 2017, at the CRESS CENTER, 6021 University Ave., Madison, WI 53705, followed by a reception luncheon. Please share a memory.

Cress Center
6021 University Ave.

Tributes