CUSHING — Dale H. Simmons, 55, passed away peacefully Sept. 7, 2014, at home with his family by his side, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Rockland on Dec. 10, 1958, Dale grew up in Wheeler's Bay in Spruce Head. He was fortunate to have a childhood in a neighborhood with a large group of cousins. There were bicycles, brush camps, boats, motorcycles, and snowmobiles for many adventures. He attended schools in St. George and went on to attend Georges Valley High School in Thomaston.

He was always on the water in some way, starting with lobstering with his dad during the summers and then venturing on his own with a boat built for him by his Uncle Bill. Dale then went on to have his own larger lobster boat and pursued a living as a lobsterman. Most recently, you could find him in his boat on a lake with a fishing pole during the weekend. You would often find him with his "bestie," Rhonda, or his friend, Jeff.

Dale was also a talented carpenter. He worked for a short time for Eastern Construction and then decided that he would branch out on his own to be a self-employed carpenter full-time. He often was found helping family members with their renovations and finish work in their homes as well as the occasional repairs. He was always there to help anyone. Dale most recently worked for Meklin Construction as a carpenter and builder along with his own customers. During the slow times, he could be found in his shop building furniture.

He also had a wonderful sense of humor and loved practical jokes. He was always there for his friends and family and could put a smile on your face no matter what was happening around you.

Dale was predeceased by his grandparents, Howard Simmons Sr. and Eleanor Cooper, and Samuel and Evelyn Archer. He leaves behind his loving parents, Howard and Virginia Simmons of Spruce Head; his sister, Laurie Pierce and her husband, Donald, of Owls Head; his brother, Brian Simmons and his wife, Julie, of Spruce Head; three nephews, Jeremy and Daniel Pierce, and Samuel Simmons; a niece, Amanda Pierce; as well as his very dear and best friend, Rhonda Forest and their dog, Charlie, of Cushing.

A celebration of Dale’s life will be held in the field he played in as a child, at the end of Cline Road in Spruce Head, overlooking Wheeler's Bay on Thursday, Sept. 11 at 10 a.m. The Rev. Dr. Branan Becknell will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Bob Gagnon Cancer Care Fund, c/o Pen Bay Health Care, 22 White St., Rockland, ME 04841.

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home.