Ernest R. Simkins

Ernest Richard Simkins, 64, of Galesburg, died at 7:15 p.m. Saturday, June 29, 2019 at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria. Ernie was born October 1, 1954 in Galesburg, the son of Sigvard Victor and Marlyn Patricia Hopkins Simkins.  He married Catherine Sue Norton on August 8, 1981 in Morrison, CO.  She survives.  Ernie is also survived by one daughter, Melanie (Aaron) Voss of Tremont; one son, Joel Hinerichsen of Bettendorf, IA; and two sisters, Donna Richardson and Dena Simkins, both of Galesburg.  He is also survived by four grandchildren, Chloe, Emma, Michael, and Zachary; one great granddaughter, Brooklyn; and his beloved dog, Fozzie.  Along with his parents, Ernie was preceded in death by two brothers, Norville and Michael; and one sister, Mary Sargeant. Ernie was a proud machinist of Local 2063m working 30 ½ years at Maytag, retiring in 2004.  He was a member of Fr. J.O. Hunt Knights of Columbus Council 556 and St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.  Ernie loved the outdoors, yardwork, vacations on the beach, music, good friends, and cold beer. A visitation and celebration of Ernie’s life will be from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, July 7, 2019 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.  A prayer service and eulogy will begin at 2:30 p.m.  Father William T. Miller will officiate.  Private burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery, Galena, IL.  Memorials may be made to the Guardian Angels Humane Society.