Hayden Simmons

My nephew was killed today in a helicopter accident. He is an amazing young man and an inspiration to me to live life to the fullest! I love and miss him.

Hayden Kent Simmons, 17, of Lewiston, brightened the world from the day he was born on Dec. 3, 1997. He lived a life full of joy, discovery and adventure, including water sports, motorcycle riding, shooting, camping and aviation. Hayden died Wednesday, July 1, 2015, from injuries sustained in a helicopter accident. Truly, Hayden died doing something he loved: flying.

Hayden's smile and upbeat personality brought light to any situation and drew others to him as a natural leader. He was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served in formal assignments and in many voluntary acts of thoughtful kindness. Hayden was equally renowned for his willingness to serve others and his physical talents. From the age of 2 years old, Hayden mastered riding a two-wheel bicycle and moved on to riding a motorcycle by the age of 3. He also loved the water and learned to waterski barefoot when he was 9 years old.

In addition to action sports, Hayden was a talented guitarist, pianist and singer. He loved his time as a Boy Scout, never missing a camping trip, and was especially fond of backpacking with his grandfather. As a gun enthusiast working at Seekins Precision, Hayden enjoyed reloading and recently built his first custom rifle. Hayden also loved spending time with family and friends and developed strong bonds with his cousins and his closest friends.

Hayden is survived by his parents, Kent and Heidi Simmons of Lewiston; his younger brothers, Dale and Emmett; his paternal grandparents, Robert and Elzada Simmons; his maternal grandfather, George Hobson and wife Judy; 31 aunts and uncles; and 59 cousins.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, June Hobson.