Larry Earl Simmons

Larry Earl Simmons, 74, passed away on May 21, 2010, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Pocatello on January 14, 1936, the oldest child of Earl and Catherine (Katie) Allen Simmons. His siblings Lanny (Duke) Simmons, Sharon Kay Taylor, and Thomas Simmons preceded him in death.

He married Marla Parke on November 7, 1953. They owned the local businesses Top Notch Café and Larry's Soot Devils.

Larry retired from the Pocatello Fire Department after working as a fire fighter for many years. He served as the Idaho Secretary/Treasurer of the International Association of Fire Fighters and was active in Local 743. He also worked frequently as a drywall and taping contractor.

Larry continued to pursue opportunities for education, was an avid reader and was especially fond of history. He was interested in many subjects, listened thoughtfully to others, and always had kind words for people. Besides traveling throughout the United States, he also enjoyed visits to Great Britain, Canada, Mexico, and China. Larry loved golf, music, and sports.

He is survived by his wife Marla and six children: Becky Simmons, Mitchell (Lezlie) Simmons, Mark (Tom) Simmons, Shelby Arnold, Michael Simmons, and Dena Simmons; 14 grandchildren: Aimee, Geoff, Levi, Summer, Kodi, Elizabeth, Kasee, Cienna, Azure, Curtis, Wilson, Karlin, Patrick, and Gus; and seven great-grandchildren: Chelsie, Gavin, Leslie, Jett, Garreth, Jazmyn, and Leala. The birth of another great-grandson, Cash, is expected very soon. Larry was preceded in death by a grandson Colter.

Larry was also father to a son, Sean, from another marriage.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like to request that donations be made to the Idaho Youth Ranch. The family wishes to express thanks to Creekside Hospice for the compassionate care that they provided during Larry's final days. Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.wilksfuneralhome.com

Service information is posted under the "Service Schedule" tab above.