Al Simms

By VARIETY STAFF

Al Ciminelli, who was known in the entertainment industry as Al Simms, died Dec. 6 in Santa Monica following a lengthy battle with emphysema. He was 86.

Simms, a 60-year veteran of the entertainment industry, held a variety of jobs throughout his career, including managing the Horace Heidt Youth Opportunity Show and working with Frankie Laine.

Simms later joined American International Pictures, where he held several executive positions, including director of AIP's music department and general manager of the studio and assistant to the president. He served at AIP for 28 years.

Simms was a member of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences, a life member of Local 47 of the Musicians Union and a member of Variety Clubs International, American Film Institute and Motion Picture Pioneers.

Simms was a founder and president emeritus of the Entertainment Industries Communion Breakfast Committee.

He is survived by his wife, Jean, two sons, a daughter, two sisters, a brother, 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

A Mass and memorial service will held at 4 p.m. Friday at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 10750 Ohio Ave., in Westwood.

Family suggests contributions in Simms' name be made to a charity of the donor's choice.