Carl Simmons, a legendary firefighter in Island County Fire District 3 and the founder and owner of Simmons Glass, died at home in Clinton on Thursday, April 21.

He was 76.

Simmons was the first volunteer firefighter in Fire District 3 to serve on South Whidbey for 50 years. During his time with the department, he worked his way up from firefighter to become a battalion chief, and was later put in charge of the district’s first rescue squad. His son Kenon Simmons, one of five children, is currently a commissioner of the fire district.

A memorial service is planned for 1 p.m. Saturday, April 30 at the Christian Missionary Alliance Church.