Philip Simmons

Philip F. Simmons 85, a lifelong resident of Manchester, died August 31st at the Manchester VA Medical Center after a period of declining health. Mr. Simmons was born July 16, 1919, the son of Anthony and Machalina (Burowick) Siemiesz of Beaver St., Manchester. He was a lifelong parishioner of St.Joseph Cathedral where he was an usher for many years. During WWII he was a Chief Petty Officer in the US Navy serving in the Pacific Theater aboard the USS Montpelier. Mr. Simmons was employed by Foster Beef Company for 40 years, retiring as superintendent. He was well known for manufacturing his own special brand of polish sausage, known as "Phil's Kielbasa". His customers were sincere devotees, often requesting that Phil ship the sausage to relatives and friends across the country. Phil's kielbasa also made its way to Viet Nam soldiers during the war, at the request of their families. Mr. Simmons is a past President and Umpire of North Little League, past Scoutmaster for St. Joseph Boy Scout Troop 131, a member of the St. Joseph Society, Lithuanian Society and American Legion - Sweeney Post. He was a firm believer in hard work, decent values, and a love of country, family, community, and God. Mr. Simmons is survived by his spouse, Helen (Davis) whom he married in 1983. He was predeceased by two brothers, Thomas Siemiesz and Leon Siemiesz, and three sisters, Anne Chmielewski, Josephine Wantuck, and Irene Dudziak. He was also predeceased by his first wife Cecile (Bernier) with whom he had four children, a daughter, Mrs. Edwin (Patricia) Benner of York, Maine, and three sons, the late Michael Simmons of Jackson, NH, Charles Simmons of Los Angelos, CA, and Gary Simmons of Manchester. He is also survived by seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, several stepgrandchildren, stepchildren, nieces and nephews. Services:There will be no calling hours. A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Friday at 1:00 pm at St. Joseph Cathedral. Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the American Cancer Society. For more information, go to www.phaneuf.net