Daniel ‘Les’ Simmers
Daniel “Les” Simmers, 83, Columbia City, died at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, March 6, 2016, at his home.
He was born Sept. 26, 1932, in Jefferson Township, Whitley County a son of Dewey R. and Bernice (McFarren) Simmers. As a young boy, his family moved to Collamer. He graduated from South Whitley High School in 1950.
After high school he enlisted in the United States Army, serving during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged Dec. 16, 1954. He married Rebecca K. Ward on Dec. 28, 1963. They made their home in Columbia City, moving to their present home in 1978. Les worked for Dana Corp. in Fort Wayne for 40 years.
He had a passion for NASCAR and collecting antique cars. He was a member of American Legion Post #98 and was involved with the Whitley County Agricultural Museum and 4-H Learning Center.
Surviving relatives include his wife of 52 years: Rebecca; three sons: Brad (Mary Ann) Simmers; Vince (Vicki) Simmers; and Todd Simmers; nine grandchildren: Justin; Josh; Janessa; Danyel; Tory; Savannah; Aidan; Lacey; five great-grandchildren: Brooklyn; Breonna Anderson; and Dillon; Ryleigh; and Hendrix Simmers; and two sisters: Dr. Carolyn Garwood, Fla.; and Marilyn Watson, Fort Wayne. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother: Ben Simmers.
A memorial gathering will be held from 1-6 p.m. Saturday, March 19, 2016, at American Legion Post #98, Columbia City with military honors presented at 3 p.m.
Arrangements are entrusted to Smith and Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.