Curtis Ordean Simmons, 84 , died on Wednesday, June 13, 2012, surrounded by his family at Fair Meadow Nursing Home in Fertile, MN. He was born on June 3, 1928, to Truman and Dagny (Erickson) Simmons in Crookston, MN. Curt was baptized at Hafslo Lutheran Church, rural Crookston; he attended the Northwest School of Agriculture in Crookston and one year of college at University of Minnesota Crookston. And attended Bradley University of Illinois for watch making. On February 20, 1951, Curt entered the United States Army. After serving in Korea, he was honorably discharged on January 27, 1953.

On June 18, 1960, Curt was united in marriage to Joan Halstensgard at Faaberg Lutheran Church in Rindal, MN. Curt worked at Standard Oil in Fertile for 6 years; he owned and operated a trucking business for 7 years; and worked for along time at Spring Gravel, rural Fertile, for many years. He retired and lived in Fertile. Joan died June 15, 1981 and Curt continued to live in town. He entered the Fair Meadow Nursing Home in May 2012.

When the Minnesota Twins were playing, Curt was either listening or watching the game. Playing “smear” and drinking coffee with friends created fond memories of laughter and stories. Fishing and dancing the Waltz were activities he enjoyed in his entire life. Watching birds and teasing squirrels was a great pastime. All will miss his friendly smile, word of encouragement and hearty laugh. Family, especially his grandchildren, were Curt’s pride and joy.

Curt is survived by five children: Craig (Karen), Waseca, MN, Brent (Bonnie Muggli, Special Friend), Warroad, MN; Holly (Terry) Geeck, White City, OR; Jody (Darrin) Rude, Reiles Acres, ND; and Wendy (Stacy) Pellett, West Fargo, ND; four grandchildren: Erik Simmons, Kari Simmons, Kirstin Simmons, , and Cullen Pellett; one sister-in-law, Ruth Simmons, Gilbert, MN. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Joan, and one brother, Robert.

Funeral services will be on Friday, June 15, 2012 at 2:00pm in the Hope Evangelical Free Church, Fertile, MN. Visitation will be one hour before the services

Burial will be in the First Evanger Lutheran Cemetery, Fertile, MN.