Walter Pettibone Simmons' Obituary
Walter Pettibone Simmons 1934-2010
If the measure of a man’s success in life is judged by the quality of his friendships and the love of his family, then Walter Pettibone Simmons died a wealthy man by the most important yardstick. He had the respect and admiration of those who knew him and he was the captain of the ship to those who loved him. Through the 76 years of his life, if you asked Walt “How are you?” it was inevitable that his response would be, “Spectacular” or “Amazing” or some other equally impressive quip. The fact is Walt managed to raise your spirit with such a positive comment to your normal everyday question. It was a simple gesture, but it carried a lot of clout and it says a lot about Walt and how he affected those around him.
The long illness and battle with Parkinson Disease did not dampen his spirit. The sense of humor was ever present and the twinkle in his eye remained for most of his life.
He was born in Detroit in September 1934 to Walter and Lois Simmons. He graduated from Culver Military Academy in 1952 and attended the University of Michigan and UC Berkley.
Walt and Carroll Bailey were married at the First Congregational Church of St.Clair in 1956.
Walter P. Simmons started his business career working for Welding Sales & Engineering Co. in Detroit, MI. In 1963 he negotiated to purchase Tuffaloy Products. Walter was a key figure in his industry. He was the recipient of the prestigious Elihu Thompson award for his work as an inventor and engineer. He retired in 1988 after setting a solid foundation for the firm that continues to prosper today.
The reality is Walt was much more than the facts to those involved with he and Carroll. He was a faithful member of the Congregational Church in St. Clair. He loved the outdoors: fishing, golfing, skiing, hunting and sailing. Notably, he sailed 18 years in the Port Huron to Mackinac race. He was one of few to earn the Admiral Bayfield award for circumnavigating all the Great Lakes.
After enjoying a beautiful sunrise over the St. Clair River on November 28th, Walter died peacefully in his home with his family by his side. He is survived by his wife Carroll of St. Clair, Michael and (Kathy) Simmons South Carolina, Jill and (Bill) Hilty Colorado, Timothy and (Laura) Simmons of Battle Creek, MI; his grandchildren Christopher, Sean and Andrew Simmons, Bailey, India and Maya Hilty, Henry and Neil Simmons as well as numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws and cousins.
He is predeceased by his son Patrick Bailey Simmons, and his sisters Alice Farr and Shirley Kieppe.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 8th to celebrate the life of Walt Simmons: teacher, mentor, friend, and gentle soul. First Congregational Church, UCC at 11am; 300 Adams Street, St.Clair, Mi, 48079.
Memorials may be made in Walter’s name to the First Congregational Church, UCC or Blue Water Hospice, 1430 Military Street, Ste A, Port Huron, Mi, 48060.
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