Richard F. Simmers

Richard "Dick" Frederick Simmers, Sr. of Bethlehem, passed away June 5, 2008 in his home surrounded by his family. His beloved wife, Frances Ramacci Simmers, passed away in 2000. She was truly the love of his life. He was born and raised in Atlantic City, New Jersey, the son of the late Harry J. and Verna Steager Simmers.

Richard lived a full life. He was an excellent athlete as a young man acquiring many trophies and medals. He proudly served his country in the U.S Army during WWII where he received a Good Conduct Medal, a Bronze Star Victory Medal, a Philippines' Liberation Ribbon and an Honorable Discharge in 1946.

Richard worked for the Bethlehem Steel Company as a Rigger Repairman for 37 years before retiring in 1978. He took great pride in his work. He was a member of the former Edgeboro Democratic Club, Heights Athletic Association and Bethlehem Volunteer Firemen's Home Association.

He was an avid pool player and earned the nickname "Shark" bringing home a number of trophies. He also loved to golf and won many awards, including the coveted "hole-in-one" trophy.

Richard was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather.

He will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed by his daughter, Deborah, wife of Mario T. Anfiteatro, son, Richard F. Simmers, Jr., his loving grandchildren, Anthony Anfiteatro and Deanna Simmers, both whom he loved and cherished. Also, a loving and devoted sister-in-law, Marian Ramacci, who unselfishly cared for him and helped assist in his care. He is also survived by a sister-in-law, Helen Simmers and a nephew, Wayne Simmers and his wife Linda. He was predeceased by his brother, Harry Wayne Simmers.

Services: A Funeral Service will be held, Tuesday, June 10, 2008 at 11 a.m. at Connell Funeral Home, Inc. 245 East Broad St. Bethlehem. Visitation will be held, Monday, June 9, 2008 from 6-8 p.m. and Tuesday, from 10-11 a.m. both in the funeral home.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Hospice of the VNA of St. Luke's, 1510 Valley Center Parkway, Suite 200, Bethlehem, PA 18017 or The American Cancer Society, 3893 Adler Place, Bethlehem, PA 18017.