CRESWELL – Lifelong Creswell resident John Robert Simmons – simply known as Bobby to most people who knew him – died Saturday evening in Creswell. He was 66.
Simmons had just left the Quik Mart convenience store after buying ice cream when he collapsed just outside the store. Paramedics arrived shortly thereafter, but were unable to revive him.
Simmons, a 1978 Creswell High School grad, in some ways had become the face of the homeless in Creswell for many years. Every day he used to sit on the bench in front of The Creswell Chronicle, always saying hello to passers-by along W. Oregon Ave.
After a life riddled with health issues and other problems, Simmons finally escaped the street life three years ago and moved in with his brother, Paul Hash, in Creswell. But his health problems never got any better.
A Celebration of Life memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 4 from 2-4 p.m. at the Creswell Grange at 274 W. Oregon Ave. in Creswell.
If you would like to bring food, there will be a potluck lunch.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be made to local organizations that specifically support the homeless in our communities.
