John F. Simkins

John F. Simkins, 90, of Pocola, OK died April 3, 2013 in Fort Smith. He was born November 4, 1922 in Ramona, Ok to William and Gertrude Garlington Simkins. John was of the Methodist faith. He was retired from the United States Air Force after 22 years of faithful service. He served in both World War II and the Korean conflict. John was awarded the Good Conduct Medal while in the Air Force.

He is survived by his wife, Rose; two daughters, Doris Lafrenz and her husband, Rodger of Cucamonga, CA and Linda Sypnieski and her husband Douglas of Lodi, CA; three step children, Connie Young and her husband, Bob of Van Buren, Daryl Bauer of Spiro and Randy Bauer and his wife Lisa of Carthage, MO; his sister, JoAnn Billy of Poteau, OK; six grandchildren, Randy Lafrenz and his wife Deborah, Monte Lafrenz and his wife Diane, Leighanne Lafrenz Nickle and her husband Robert, David Sypnieski and his wife Katie, Jennifer Sypnieski Neuman and her husband Scott and Rebakah Sypnieski; 12 great grandchildren, Steven Lafrenz and his wife Ashley, Jessica, Jason, Lindee and Alyssa Lafrenz, Seth and Trevor Nickle, Andrew, Ryan and Rachel Sypnieski and Olivia and Liam Neuman; two great great grandchildren, Riley and Brookelynn Lafrenz, as well as close friend and special caregiver, Mary Croy. John is preceded in death by his first wife, Hazel; his sisters, Mildred Barker, Katherine Mikles and Ruth Sims and his brothers, Bill, Roy, Gene, Glenn and Robert Simkins.

Funeral services will be 10:00AM Saturday, April 6, 2013 at Edwards Funeral Home Chapel, with Rev. Leroy Billy officiating. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park with military honors. Pallbearers will be Bill, Russell and Ronnie Simkins, Barry Bruton and James Croy. Services are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.

To view an online guestbook, visit www.edwardsfuneralhome.com