Bernard was born June 27, 1948 in Cuba and was the son of Edward F. and Myrtle Jane Fields Simmons. On July 8, 1972 he married Sharon L. Chapman who survives.

Bernard grew up on Crawford Creek Road and was a 1968 graduate of Belfast Central School. He then served during the Vietnam War From February 5, 1969 to February 4, 1971. He ranked Spec. E4 for the Co. E 3rd BN 506th Infantry 101st Airborne Screaming Eagles. He received many medals with 2 Bronze Stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Metal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Air Medal Marksman (M-60mg), Expert (Rifle M-14), Expert (Rifle M-16), and Expert (Grenade). Returning home for the next 16 years he was employed at the Belfast Lumbar Co., then at Collins Buildings Supply in Wellsville for 4 years and then at Zim’s Lumbar and Stores in Cuba for 16 years. Finally, he was employed at Empire Cheese for 18 years, at which time he retired.

Bernard was a lifetime member of the Cuba VFW Post 27. He led an active life in farming, enjoyed gardening and animals. Bernard also enjoyed sharing stories and singing songs from his childhood. He would often use phrases like “I had one once but the wheels fell off.” “Take your time going but hurry back.” But most of all his greatest love is spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Along with his loving wife Sharon, Bernard is survived by; 2 sons, Edward J. (Sonia) Simmons of Allen and Lawrence J. Simmons of Fillmore; 3 daughters, Elizabeth J. Simmons of Arcade, Erin L. Simmons of Fillmore, and Brandi M. (Joshua) Cardenas of Clarksville, TN; 10 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren; a brother, Charles E. Simmons of Angelica; 4 sisters, Margaret Higley of Allegany, Susan (James) Barnes of Cuba, Lois Koczian of VA and Marilyn (Mike) Bunk of Cuba; and several nieces and nephews.

Bernard was predeceased by; his parents; a brother, James Simmons; and sister, Doris Paluch.

Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are under the direction of Treusdell Funeral Home, Belfast. Online Condolences may be made by clicking the button below.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Cattaraugus-Allegany Counties Joint Veterans Council Volunteer Van Service, 1 Leo Moss Dr, Olean, New York 14760. Checks may be made out to JVC Van Services.