Bruce Roland Simons died at his him on October 21,2020 in Gold Canyon, AZ due to his battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 62. Bruce Was born on August 25, 1958 in Eugene, OR to Gene and Rachel Simons. Bruce spent much of his youth and young adult life playing basketball. He had a jump shot that would make people look in awe. Not to mention the ankles he broke over the years. Bruce grew up in various parts of Washington with three brothers. His brothers Dave, Greg, Russ and him all enjoyed the outdoors including fishing and maybe a little trouble making. Bruce worked at JC Penney’s for over 30 years at the Alderwood Mall in Washington State. His passion for customer service, love of potential commission and accolades drove his success with the Penney company. It would also be the place he met his soulmate and love of his life, Lori Martinson.
On September 19th, 1982 on his father in law, Marty Martinson’s birthday, Bruce and Lori wed. It’s hard to put into words how special their relationship was. Truly, Peas in a Pod, they did everything together and thoroughly enjoyed each other’s company. Between road trips, outings to the nursey, painting, cooking, and so much more, they loved each other so much. Which is why, we are so glad that Bruce had a very close relationship with Jesus Christ and is now in heaven with Lori.
After moving to AZ and retiring from Penney’s he went to work for Home Depot in the garden department and found a true love for gardening. He definitely had a green thumb. Bruce was a dedicated father and husband who would always put his wife and kids needs over his own. Bruce had a way about him that when he walked into a room everyone was drawn to him. He had an explosive personality in which his kindness would tug at your heart. He had a heart of gold. Bruce is survived by his children, Carlina Stahnke and Ross Simons; son in law, Chris Stahnke; father and mother in law, Marty and Ardella Martinson; his dad, Gene R. Simons; brothers, Dave Simons and Gregory Simons; and his grand-dogs Snoop and Lola.
Isaiah 40:31 But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
A funeral service will be held at 10:00am on Monday, October 30 at Grace Church, 8701 E. Brown Road, Mesa, AZ. Burial will follow at San Tan Memorial Gardens at Schnepf Farms, 22425 E Cloud Road, Queen Creek, AZ.
Are prayers are with you and for you
Bruce had a heart bent towards the Lord. Serving his church in any way needed.! He was a great friend and listener. The earth is empty without him in it, but heaven is so full with him in it! We will do miss him.
Carlina, what a beautiful tribute to your father. Reading about him warmed my heart and brought a smile as it mentioned his love for sports, his “jump shot” and aftermath of “broken ankles”. May you and your family find peach and comfort from above during this most difficult time. Please let me know if there is anything I can do.
Carlina, what a wonderful tribute to your dad, and mom’s, memory! Know that you and your family will be thought of and prayed for often.
Are prayers are with you and for you
Bruce had a heart bent towards the Lord. Serving his church in any way needed.! He was a great friend and listener. The earth is empty without him in it, but heaven is so full with him in it! We will do miss him.
Carlina, what a beautiful tribute to your father. Reading about him warmed my heart and brought a smile as it mentioned his love for sports, his “jump shot” and aftermath of “broken ankles”. May you and your family find peach and comfort from above during this most difficult time. Please let me know if there is anything I can do.
Carlina, what a wonderful tribute to your dad, and mom’s, memory! Know that you and your family will be thought of and prayed for often.