Irene Simmons

On Wednesday, June 5, 2014, Irene Elizabeth (Johnson) Simmons, 87, passed away at Portneuf Medical Center in Pocatello, Idaho, from a sudden illness, despite valiant efforts to save her. Her caring, kindness, and love will be missed by many. Irene was born on March 5, 1927, in Idaho Falls, ID to Frank Johnson and Nettie Elizabeth (Clark) Johnson. She attended schools in Idaho Falls. She had a lifelong desire to learn and returned to further her education at I.S.U. in Pocatello, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in 1988. Irene joined the ranks of Rosie's Riveters in 1944, at the age of 17, she then moved to Utah where she built airplanes at Hill Air force Base, to further the cause during World War II. She married Lynn C. Simmons on July 12, 1951. Their marriage was solemnized for time and all eternity in the Idaho Falls LDS temple in 1994. Irene was a loving wife and devoted mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, and great-great grandmother. She was a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She loved the gospel and serving others. She always had a big hug and warm smile for everyone she knew or just met. Irene took dance lessons in her youth. This gift and talent helped convince Lynn to take up square dancing. They danced together for over 20 years as members of the Choo Choos, making many wonderful friends. In addition to dance, Irene enjoyed golfing, camping, motor cycle riding, gardening, and spending winters at their Arizona home. Above all, she loved spending time with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren and precious great-grandchildren. Our hearts are truly broken and she will be greatly missed! Irene is survived by her eternal companion Lynn C. Simmons, daughter, Sherry (Mark) Paulsen, Idaho Falls, ID, sons; Richard (Marilyn) Simmons, Fresno, CA, and Frank (Sheila-deceased) Simmons, Pocatello, ID, 10 grandchildren, 12 great- grandchildren, and 1 great- great-grandchild. Irene was preceded in death by her parents, four brothers; Gerald, Golden, Fred, and baby Dean; her daughter Maureen Wickham, grandson Brandon Paulsen, and daughter-in-law, Sheila Simmons. Funeral services will be Wednesday, June 11, 2014 at 11 AM at the Highland LDS 4 th Ward building 2300 Butte St. (Butte and Hiskey) Pocatello, ID. Family will receive friends Tuesday, June 10, 2014 from 6-8 PM at Colonial Funeral Home 2005 S. 4 th Ave. Pocatello, ID. 208-233-1500, and for one hour prior to services at the church. Burial will follow at Mountain View Cemetery. Condolences can be made online to the family at www.colonial-funeralhome.com