Charles E. Simmons
November 26, 1949–April 30, 2025
Charles E. “Chuck” Simmons, age 75 of Eastman, formerly of Darlington, passed away Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Prairie Maison in Prairie du Chien.
He was born on Nov. 26, 1949, to Claude “Hop” and Doris (Schwartz) Simmons. Chuck graduated from Darlington High School with the class of 1967 and later obtained his bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.
He married Marlene McGowan on May 20, 1972, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Darlington. Chuck worked for Thorpe Finance Corp. in Burlington, before moving to Darlington where he worked in banking for several years.
Chuck became an insurance agent for American Family Insurance in Brodhead, later serving as district manager in Horicon.
Chuck returned to agency with American Family and moved to the Prairie du Chien area in 1998 where he worked until retirement. Most recently, he has served as Chairman of the Board for Scenic Rivers Energy Cooperative and on the National Board for the NRECA. Chuck was always involved in local organizations including the Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis, and Rotary Clubs.
He was very active in the Knights of Columbus, serving as district deputy and state chairman for the Tootsie Roll Drive for People with Intellectual Disabilities. Chuck loved attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and rooting on the Omro Foxes, Parker Vikings, and Prairie du Chien Blackhawks.
He also enjoyed golfing with friends and was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers, Chicago Cubs, and Wisconsin Badgers.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years Marlene; children Emily (Brian) Joachim, Benjamin (Dana) Simmons, and Brian (Katie) Simmons; siblings Bill (Pat) Simmons and Sue Thom; and grandchildren Samuel, Caleb, Eli, Charlotte, Henry, Jack, Carter, Cooper, and Addison. Chuck was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-laws, Donald Thom and Michael McGowan.
Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, May 5, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Fr. Chris Gernetzke officiated with burial in the church cemetery, both in Darlington.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Wisconsin Badger Camp, Eastman First Responders, or an organization/charity of your choice.
Chuck’s family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff at Prairie Maison for their gentle and professional care. www.garrityfuneralhome.com.
