Simon Christofano

1931 - 2026

Simon Christofano passed away peacefully at home on January 29, 2026, at the age of 94.

Simon was born on April 4, 1931, and lived a long meaningful life filled with love, laughter, and devotion to his family and country. Simon proudly served in the Korean War. After returning home, he dedicated his life to his family, his work at General Motors for 35 years, and being a steady, loving presence for all who knew him. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose strength, humor, and kindness shaped generations.

Simon was married to his loving wife Antoinette Christofano for 63 years. Together they built a home rooted in love, family and faith. He was the proud father of two children: Al Vincent (Margo) Christofano and Annette (Anthony) Palazzolo. Simon was preceded in death by his parents, Alfonso Christofano and Anna Cariddi, his in-laws Vito Curiale and Maggie Cammisano, and siblings: Anthony (Anna Mae) Christifano, Jimmy (Carol) Christofano, Angelo (Mary Francis) Christofano, Joe Mike Christifano, Agnes (Marion) Saladino, and brother-in-law Frank Pittala.

Simon “Papa” is survived by his beloved family including his cherished grandchildren: Salvatore Palazzolo, Susanne (Chase) Calvert, Antoinette (Justin) Lenhert, Antoinette (John) LaBella, Simon (Nikki) Christofano, Toniann (Paul) Dominick and Anthony Christofano. He was also blessed with 12 great-grandchildren, who brought him endless pride and joy: Anthony Salvatore Palazzolo, Liliana, Annabelle, Charli and Roman Calvert, Leo, Lena and Joseph Lenhert, Sofia, Anthony and Rosalia Dominick, and Marco Christofano with number 13 on the way. Simon is additionally survived by his sisters-in-law: Marie Christifano, Phyllis Christifano and Kitty Pittala, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Simon will be remembered for his infectious smile, his playful spirit, and his ability to make everyone around him laugh. He was truly a jokester at heart – always ready with a witty comment, a funny story or a grin that could light up the room. He also had a lifelong love for the Kansas City Chiefs, never missing a chance to cheer them on with loud, passionate commentary. Watching a game with Simon meant hearing his full running play-by-play. Above all, Simon loved his family deeply. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the generations who were blessed to call him husband, father, Papa and friend. Simon lived a wonderful life, and in the hearts of those who loved him, it was a wonderful finish – full of love, family, and lasting memories. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.    

As a family we would like to give our thanks to the caregivers and our friends: Tahara Ross and the staff at Faith Home Health & Hospice.

Services will be held on Tuesday, February 3, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. Visitation will begin at 10:30 a.m. followed by the Funeral Mass at 12:00 p.m. Burial will be at White Chapel Memorial Gardens.

Pallbearers: Salvatore Palazzolo, Simon Christofano, Anthony Christofano, Chase Calvert, Justin Lenhert, Paul Dominick, John LaBella

Honorary Pallbearers: Leo Lenhert, Anthony Palazzolo, Roman Calvert, Anthony Dominick, Joseph Lenhert, Marco Christofano

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com