Charles M. Simmons
Wednesday, October 21, 2009 12:04 PM PDT
Charles M. Simmons
Sept. 2, 1977 - Sept. 30, 2009
Ontario
Charles Michael Simmons lit up the lives of his parents, Paul and Rebecca Simmons, when he entered the world Sept. 2, 1977. Tragically, he passed away all too soon, in a car accident, Sept. 30, 2009. Our lives will never be the same. He filled up the room and brought love and joy to all who were there, especially his siblings, Sam, Celeste and Joseph. With his laughter, exuberance, joy and generosity, he was larger than life. We were so blessed to have him as a part of our family. Our lives are so much richer for having loved him and for having him love us. Charlie was so talented at anything he touched. He was a gifted basketball player, artist, pianist and lawyer. He could do anything he put his mind to. When he decided to learn Spanish, he was fluent within a couple of months. He chose to spend his life with the poor, needy and downtrodden. He cared nothing for money and would give it to all who needed it. Charlie graduated from Hillcrest High School in Midvale, Utah, and from the University of Utah in 1999 with a degree in music composition. He received his law degree from the University of Iowa in 2002. He practiced law in Newport and Ontario, Ore., as a criminal defense attorney, most recently with the firm of Stunz, Fonda, Kiyuna and Horton. He had an unparalleled record in post-conviction trials. One of the highlights of our lives was watching him argue a pro bono case before the Oregon Supreme Court. He is survived by his parents; his siblings, Sam (Stephanie) Simmons, Celeste (Fredy) Pimentel and Joseph; his nephew, Reid; his paternal grandparents, Thomas and Mary Simmons; as well as by a host of aunts, uncles and cousins. We are so grateful he got to meet his nephew, Reid, whom he loved instantly. He is preceded in death by his beloved maternal grandmother, Norma Redd Pierce; and his adopted grandmother, Erlinda. He is also survived by his second family in Ontario, whom he loved and cared for so much. In lieu of flowers, please donate to
www.ofdc.org or to someone less fortunate. In addition, please let your nearest and dearest know how much you love them, as Charlie always did. A memorial service for Charles will be at noon Saturday at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1705 N.W. Fourth Avenue, Ontario.
