Danny Simmelink

Danny Lee Simmelink was born to Mary (Tucker) and Floyd Simmelink on December 11, 1950 at Mitchell County Hospital, Beloit, KS.  He passed away at his home surrounded by family on October 23, 2024 at the age of 73.

Danny grew up on a farm north of Cawker City, KS until 1962 when his family moved to the farm northwest of Ionia, KS where Danny farmed and ranched the rest of his life.  In 1968 he graduated from Esbon High School.  He attended Beloit Technical College for two years before being drafted during the Vietnam War.  He joined the Navy Seabees where he served for 2 ½ years.  Danny wed Marcy Ann Voboril on August 24, 1974.  To this union two children, Chad and Kelli, were born.  Danny and Marcy celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this year with their family.

Due to the loss of his father, Danny began managing the family farm as a teenager.  Following his time in the service, he returned to the farm where he continued to build the business with Marcy.  In 2003, together with Chad, they started a bred heifer program, which was a highlight of his farming and ranching career.  The friendships formed with the cattlemen they met along the way were very special to Danny.

Danny enjoyed many things throughout his life – snow and water skiing, fishing, officiating basketball, coaching baseball, following the markets (highs and lows), DIY projects with Marcy, traveling, and watching the kids and grandkids in their activities.  He enjoyed visits with friends and family and rarely missed the opportunity for a good laugh.

A committed community member, Danny served on the White Rock School District board, Jewell County Conservation District board, Odessa Township board, Esbon Volunteer Fire Department, and Ionia Cemetery board.  He was involved in numerous church projects and served as the Ionia Cemetery sexton for many years.  A true neighbor, he was always ready to lend a hand when others were in need.

Danny will be greatly missed by his family and loved ones. He is survived by his wife, Marcy of the home; mother, Mary (Tucker) Fiene of Smith Center, KS; children and grandchildren, Chad (Jennifer), Hannah, Bethany, and Luke Simmelink of Esbon, KS and Kelli (Kurt), Brady, Collin, and Leah Childs of Belleville, KS.  Brother, Scott (Cathy) of Waterloo, NE; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his father, Floyd Simmelink and brother, Ronnie Simmelink.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 AM Monday, October 28 at the Ionia Church. Visitation will be from 1-7 PM, with family present from 5-7 PM Sunday, October 27 at the Roberts Family Funeral Home. Memorials may be given to the Esbon Community Center or Solomon Valley Hospice.