Simmons, Jean (Jamtaas) Age 88, of Edina, passed away peacefully June 4, 2018. She will be remembered for her quick wit, wry humor, sense of loyalty and love of travel. Born Nov. 26, 1929, to James and Esther Jamtaas in Minneapolis, Jean graduated from West High School in 1947. She went on to earn a B.A. and meet her life-long partner and husband, Dr. Richard K. Simmons, at the University of Minnesota. Here also began a fierce devotion to Golden Gopher football becoming a season ticket holder for over 60 years. She was an active member of The Woman's Club of Minneapolis for 40 years, a music lover and benefactor of the Minnesota Orchestra, a volunteer for the Women's Auxiliary for the MN Orchestra, and a faithful 60-year member of Hennepin Avenue United Methodist. Her extensive travels brought her to all corners of the world from Australia to Zimbabwe, Ecuador to Greece and, of course, to her beloved London. With 31 trips to London, she was a true Anglophile navigating the twisting, oxcart roads and memorizing each and every Tube stop. Jean is survived by her husband of 64 years, Rick Simmons, son James (Tracey Henderson), son Scott (Tammy), daughter Gail (Richard Loberg) and grand-children Daniel (24), Hannah (20), Sarah (18), Micah (18), Riley (17) and Tenley (15). Memorial service to be held at Hennepin Methodist, 511 Groveland Av., Mpls., Saturday, June 30, at 1:00 p.m. Half-hour visitation preceding. Reception at The Woman's Club to follow. Memorials preferred to: Minnesota Orchestra, The Woman's Club of Minneapolis or Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church.

Published on June 26, 2018