Richard Simmering

Richard “Ted” E. Simmering

Richard “Ted” E. Simmering, 76, of Machesney Park, IL, passed away Tuesday, June 20, 2023, at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center. Born October 18, 1946, in Cedar Rapids, IA, the son of Richard and Edna Mae (Kercher) Simmering. Married Debbie Hess on August 4, 1984. Employed as an art teacher by the Rockford Public School District 205 and retired from Jefferson High School. Ted was a talented painter with his own studio, and he traveled for art shows. He was happiest when painting, and his paintings always had a meaning behind them. Ted loved his kids, grandkids, dogs, and road trips to see family and friends. As a kid and as an adult, “Teflon Ted” got into trouble but always found a way out. He loved teaching and connecting with his students. Ted enjoyed tinkering on old British cars, especially his MG & Triumph Spitfire. Survivors include his wife Debbie Hess-Simmering; children, Jacob (Katherine) Simmering, Jordan Kasymov, and Jack Simmering; grandchildren, Melina Simmering and Charlie Simmering; siblings, Marnie Simmering, Robert (Mary) Simmering, John Simmering, Shelley Burton, and Meli (Ian Wilcox) Simmering; sisters-in-law, Lisa Hess and Dorothy Simmering; brother-in-law, Todd (Pam) Hess; nieces and nephews, Tae, Max, Marcia, Nathan, Vanessa, Erin, Serenity, Canjerrica, Natasha, Raquel, Marianna, Jennifer, Angie, Scott, Gordon, Cory, Linz, Nick, Lizzy, Clayton, and Tyler; special friends, Mike Steele, Amy Phillip and his art gang. Predeceased by his parents; parents-in-law, Mel and Judy Hess and Beve Forrest; brother-in-law, Glen Burton; and sister-in-law, Jayne Simmering. Special thanks to OSF St. Anthony Medical Center CCU staff for their care and compassion.

Service at 11 a.m. Monday, June 26, 2023, at Delehanty Funeral Home, 401 River Lane, Loves Park, IL, with visitation from 10 a.m. to service time. Burial in Scottish Argyle Cemetery.