Kenneth Morris Simkins

After a lengthy and debilitating illness, Ken left his mortal life concerned only about leaving his devoted daughter, Jodi. He passed peacefully at the age of 79 after having many friends, neighbors, and family members visit. Although these past few years were very difficult for him, it brought a sense of tenderness and adoration to those who cared for him.

Ken was born in Bremerton, Washington. He was the oldest of five children born to H. Morris Simkins and Violet R. Simkins. He exhibited kindness daily and would help anyone who needed it – you didn’t even have to ask. He always stood up for and protected those he loved.

Ken graduated from Arlington High School in 1963. Soon after, he proudly enlisted in the U.S. Army for a period of three years stationed mostly in Munich, Germany. Upon his return home he became employed at the Boeing Company to save money to purchase a car. Ken then worked for Bayliner Boats in Marysville, Washington. Additionally, he volunteered several years with Snohomish County Sherriff’s office serving in various positions.

In 1977 Ken relocated from Washington state to St. George, Utah where he purchased his home, met his beloved wife, and became employed by Simkins Construction. Later he started his own business, K & K Hardware in Hurricane, eventually becoming a security guard at the St. George temple. Before long, he became head of landscaping for the temple grounds remaining there until he retired in September, 2010.

Ken married the love of his life, DiAnn Hall, for time and all eternity in the St. George Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on September 2, 1978. They were blessed with two children, Nick and Jodi.

Ken loved fishing, guns, hunting, cooking, searching recipes and a good campfire with a Dutch oven on it. He spent hours watching cop shows and westerns or anything with John Wayne. His annual vegetable garden brought great pleasure to not only him, but also his neighbors. He could always be found early mornings tending his garden while enjoying fresh tomatoes for breakfast. His goofy sense of humor was enjoyed by all. He always knew how to put a smile on your face and make you laugh. He was very skilled at embarrassing family members and enjoyed merciless, but fun, teasing. He was everyone’s favorite uncle. No one was safe from “The Gooch”! Lastly, Ken inherited his love for duct tape from his father.

Ken is survived by his daughter, Jodi Simkins, honorary daughter, Salu, his grandchildren, Tayler Simkins and Kolby Simkins and great-granddaughter, Knoxlynn Cobbley. Also, his brother, Richard (Carolanne) Simkins, brother-in-law, Art Woolbert (Jan) and two sisters, Shirley (Dave) Pickering, Sue (Ken) Anderson. Many nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins and friends mourn his passing.

He is pre-deceased by his wife, DiAnn Hall Simkins, his son, Nickolas Simkins, his parents, Morris and Violet Simkins, and a sister, Roberta Woolbert.

A very special thanks to Season’s Health & Rehabilitation care center for their kindness over the past six years. They truly made him feel loved in his new home. Also, Zion’s Way Home Health and Hospice, for their expertise in making Ken comfortable before his passing.

Graveside services will be held at 12:00 noon on Tuesday the 11th, at the city cemetery in Enterprise, Utah.

* Please note for those traveling from St. George to Enterprise, SR 18 is closed at the Veyo Bridge from 9 AM - 5 PM. You will need to go through gunlock in order to get to the graveside service. Plan for 30 minuets of extra travel time. 

In lieu of flowers, if you choose, please make a donation to the Parkinson’s foundation.