John R. Simons, age 76 of York, NE died Tuesday, January 13, 2026 in Lincoln, NE. He was born on July 20, 1949 to Raymond and Lois (Graham) Simons in Nebraska City, NE. John was united in marriage to Peggy Wood on December 12, 1970 at Plattsmouth, NE.
He was a true car man who could fix just about any car. A proud Marine veteran and Bronze Star recipient, he served his country with honor. He worked for Burlington Northern Railroad for 19 years before becoming a truck driver. He deeply loved his grandchildren and never missed a chance to cheer on the Cubs and the Huskers.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Peggy Simons of York; sons Raymond (Dani) Simons of Polk, NE; Robert (Jeanne) Simons of York; Donald (Chloe) Simons of York; nine grandchildren; four great grandchildren; and two great grandchildren on the way. He is also survived by his brothers Steve Simons of Lincoln; Tom (Barb) Simons of Lincoln; sisters Sherry Padgett of Charlotte, NC; Beverly Simons of Humboldt, NE; nieces; nephews and many other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister Judy and infant brother Jimmy.
Memorial services are scheduled for 10:30 a.m., Saturday, January 24, 2026 at the Metz Chapel in York. Inurnment will be at the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Grand Island, NE at a later date. It was John’s wishes to be cremated there will be no viewing. However, a signing of his book will be Friday, January 23 from 1-8 p.m. with his family greeting friends from 6-7:30 p.m. that evening all at Metz Mortuary in York. Memorials may be directed to his family for later designation or to the Wounded Warrior Project.