John Frederick Simmons

John Frederick Simmons October 25, 1949 - June 26, 2026 John Frederick Simmons entered the joy of Heaven on June 26, 2026, after 76 years of a life lived with laughter, loyalty, and an unshakeable faith in Jesus Christ. Though his passing leaves a deep ache in the hearts of those who loved him, his family and friends celebrate with John his victory in Christ. John was born on October 25, 1949, to Neil and Mary Simmons. At just 11 years old, he endured a tragedy that would have broken many. His parents were killed in a car accident while he was with them, leaving him to be passed from family to family for the remainder of his childhood. Yet John never allowed that hardship to harden him. Instead, he met the world with good humor, a mischievous grin, and a spirit that chose joy over bitterness. John met the love of his life, Kathy, at Upper Iowa University in Fayette, Iowa, and the two built a life together that spanned 56 years of marriage and many miles from Greeley, Colorado and Grinnell, Iowa; to Rochester, Minnesota; Watertown, South Dakota; and Golden Valley, Minnesota before settling into their long and cherished home in New Hope, Minnesota. A mechanical engineer by trade, John dedicated his career to the design of railroad track maintenance machines, among others, specializing in hydraulics and pneumatics. He was meticulous in his craft, and the projects that bore his designs were built to last. Outside of work, John poured his time into the people and things he loved most. He was an enthusiastic golfer, a devoted family man, and a loyal friend. He gave generously of his time, volunteering and teaching practical skills to those in need, particularly through his work at the Dignity Center in Minneapolis. He found deep satisfaction in woodworking and building. John was a dedicated member of Mount Olivet Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where his faithful service was a natural extension of the faith that anchored him. That faith was never more evident than in his final chapter. When John was diagnosed with stage 4 esophageal cancer, his response was, "Either way, I win. If I die, I go away to be with Jesus. If I live, I get to be here with my family and friends." Even in his dying, he thought not of himself but of those around him, wanting to be present and steadfast for the people he loved until the very end. John is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy; his sons, Aaron (ReNae) and Bryan (Tricia); his grandchildren, Andrea, Laura, Logan, Alessandra, Luke, and Safara; his sister, Betty; and a wide and loving circle of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Neil and Mary Simmons. Memorials may be directed toward the Frauenshuh Cancer Center, Mount Olivet Cathedral of the Pines, and Grace Hospice of Minneapolis. A visitation will be held on Sunday, July 12 from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Washburn-McReavy Edina Chapel. A memorial service will be held on Monday, July 13 at 1:00 p.m. at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, with a visitation hour beginning at noon.