Charles “Chuck” Simmonds, Sr., 85, of Rulo, NE, passed away November 1, 2018 at Rockford, IL. He was born October 19, 1933 at Rulo to Clarence and Josephine (Campbell) Simmonds. 

Chuck enlisted in the U. S. Army on February 5, 1954 at St. Joseph, MO. He took basic training at Ft. Riley, KS. While in the service he joined the Airborne Jump School at Ft. Campbell, KY. He served with the 25th Infantry Division, 101st Airborne Division and the 509th Airborne with the 8th division. While with the divisions he made 58 parachute jumps.

He was temporarily retired from the Army on December 14, 1965 due to total disability. In 1965 he and his family returned to Rulo to make their home. On December 1, 1968 he was permanently retired.

He was proud of his country and his heritage. He was active in service related activities. He was a post commander of the American Legion #102 and active in the VFW, American Legion, DAV Ceremonial Honor Guard and the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska Ceremonial Honor Guard. He spent many hours putting out the American flags at Rulo Cemetery on Memorial Day and raising the flags on special days and at military funerals.

Charles was well liked and respected in the community by all who knew him.

While serving in Hawaii, Charles met and married Barbara Erickson on April 20, 1957 at Oahu, HI. They divorced on June 12, 1986.

Charles is survived by his sons, Charles Simmonds, Jr. and his wife Connie of Texas, Bobby and Jamie Simmonds both of Rulo and Joseph Simmonds of Rockford, IL, six grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and nieces and Nephews.

His funeral will be held on Tuesday, November 6, 2018 at 10:30 AM at the George Ogden Building with Pastor Jim Brown officiating. Interment will be in Rulo Cemetery. Military