Kevin Lance Simmons

Kevin Lance Simmons, 67, passed away on October 13, 2016. He was with his wife and daughter in the comfort of his home in Bolivar after bravely battling cancer for almost 8 months. He had shared nearly 26 years of marriage with his wife, Linda. Kevin was born in Leon, Iowa on October 16, 1948 to Robert L. & Evelyn L. Simmons. He attended several different schools in both California and Missouri before graduating from Reeds Spring High School in 1966. Later he attended Southwest Missouri State University. He worked around different construction jobs briefly, but went to work for the US Postal Service in 1982 and spent 27 years as a walking mail carrier. After his retirement in 2009 he enjoyed fishing, gardening, playing cards with special friends, an occasional trip to a casino for the day, and resting in his favorite recliner. But his most favorite thing to do was spending time with his family and especially his grandsons. An annual camping trip with them was always a favorite event he looked forward to. But even just sitting on the swing, going to the park or watching them play sports, being with them was what made him the happiest. Kevin will always be remembered by many as one of the kindest men they had ever met. So many words described him, patient, humble, loving and compassionate. He always wanted the world to be a better place, for there to be more justice and compassion for all mankind and especially kids from all over the world. He wasn’t a man that judged you by your skin color, religious beliefs, or how much money you had. He always wanted everyone to be happy and taken care of and if he could lend a hand to someone for any reason he was always ready to do so. His family was very important to him and that included numerous extended family members that were neighbors and friends that he considered the same as family. Kevin made an impression on many people and had a lot of wonderful friends that will miss him. He is survived by his wife, Linda, his son, Mick and his fiancé Gail, his daughter, Kelly and her husband Justin Mauck, and his son Tyler. Also the proud Papa of Dillon, Patrick and James Simmons, Drew, Aidan and Asher Mauck, Carter and Preston Simmons and Macey Kee-Todd. He is also survived by his siblings, Greg & wife Marlyss Simmons, Rob and wife Joanne Simmons, Tamara Strickley and husband Michael Palmer, Tim and wife Dianne Simmons, Denny & wife Penny Simmons. As well as a host of nephews and nieces who loved and respected him. He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Evelyn Simmons, and his brother, Gordon Simmons. Visitation will be held at Butler Funeral Home Thursday, October 20, from 5-7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, October 21, at Butler Funeral Home, with burial to follow at Greenwood Cemetery.

Kevin Lance Simmons

October 16, 1948 - October 13, 2016