Allen Lee Sims

In Loving Memory of Allen Lee Sims

March 28, 1945 – June 5, 2025

With deep love and sorrow, we announce the passing of Allen Lee Sims, a devoted husband, father, brother, and friend, who passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at the age of 80. Allen’s health began to decline in August due to complications between preexisting kidney issues, diabetes, and congestive heart failure. During the fight with these conditions, prolonged bed rest brought on pneumonia. Combined with prior ailments this ultimately led to his passing. He faced it all with quiet strength and resilience.

Allen was born in Douglas, Wyoming, on March 28, 1945, to Arthur and Margaret Sims. He lived a life grounded in love, hard work, and faithfulness. He married his high school sweetheart, Sherry Amspoker, and together they shared 57 and a half years of deep, unwavering love.

He graduated from Wentworth Military Academy, where he played trumpet and pursued a lifelong love of music, once aspiring to be a concert pianist. Allen earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in sociology from the University of Wyoming and went on to attend Eastern Montana College to pursue a master's in rehabilitation. Before completing his degree, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served as an X-ray technician for two years in the United States and one year deployed in Vietnam.

After his return, Allen and Sherry eventually settled in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where they raised their two sons, Jim and Mike. Though he had trained in psychology, Allen found his true calling working with his hands. He built a career as a highly skilled welder with Anderson Iron Works under his close friend Norm Anderson, creating ornamental iron railings and spiral staircases admired across the country.

Allen was a 32nd Degree Master Mason, a member of the Scottish Rite, and a proud member of the Shriners for over 50 years. He was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, High Twelve, and traveled with the local chapter of Rambling Rovers. His commitment to service and family was wholehearted and steadfast.

He was a loving and dedicated father, and his greatest pride was his family. He taught through quiet example—by how he worked, how he loved, and the selfless sacrifices he made without ever seeking recognition. He gave us his time, his wisdom, and a lifetime of cherished memories.

Allen is survived by his wife, Sherry; his sons, James (wife: Amy, children: Hailey and Vick) and Michael (wife: Tara, children: Alex, Nick, and AJ); his brother, Arthur "Bud" Sims; his longtime friend Norm Anderson; and all those whose lives were touched by his quiet strength, gentle humor, and generous heart.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Margaret Sims and his sister, Margaret Bluze.

We miss Allen more than words can express but take comfort in knowing that the legacy of his love, values, and craftsmanship lives on in all of us.

"A celebration of Allen’s life will be held at the American Legion in Post Falls on Monday July 14th from 4 to 7pm, where friends and family are invited to gather, share stories, and honor the memory of an incredible man."

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Shriners Children's Spokane, 911 W. 5th Ave, Spokane, WA 99204, or the charity of your choice.

Arrangements by English Funeral Chapel, Post Falls.