Lon Simmons: American Baseball and Football Broadcaster

Early life and playing career

Simmons was born in Vancouver, Washington, and grew up in Burbank, California. After military service in World War II, he spent time as a minor league baseball player, appearing for several lower-level clubs during the immediate postwar years. Those playing experiences helped shape his knowledge of the game and later informed his broadcast work.

Broadcasting career

Simmons moved into broadcasting after his playing days and became known for clear, steady play-by-play and a calm delivery. He worked extensively in baseball and football, calling regular-season games, spring training, and postseason coverage when necessary. The long association with the San Francisco Giants made him a familiar presence to fans tuning into radio and television, while his work with the San Francisco 49ers linked him to professional football in the same region.

Style and significance

Simmons was respected for his preparation and for conveying the rhythm of a game without excessive flourish. Colleagues and listeners valued his professionalism and ability to explain strategy and context to casual and knowledgeable audiences alike. Over time he became part of the Bay Area sports landscape, contributing to the way generations experienced baseball and football on the air.

Beyond broadcasting, Simmons retained ties to the local communities where he lived and worked. In later years he resided in the Bay Area, including San Francisco and nearby communities. He was a family man and father to four daughters.

Death and legacy

Lon Simmons died on April 5, 2015, in Daly City, California, at age 91. His passing drew remembrances from listeners, colleagues, and sports organizations that had relied on his voice for decades. Today he is remembered as one of the enduring broadcasters of mid‑20th century American sports.

Further links

• Baseball career and context
• Broadcasting roles and history
• Football announcing work
• San Francisco Giants association
• San Francisco 49ers association
• Post–World War II minor league play
• Vancouver, Washington — birthplace
• Washington state background
• Burbank, California — upbringing
• California ties and early life
• San Francisco and Bay Area residence