Paul R. Simms

Paul R. Simms

Paul R. Simms lost his 5-year battle with Alzheimer’s on June 2, 2025. He was born in Chicago on August 29, 1930, to Paul and Lillian Szymczyk (nee Szwaja). He met Arlene Young, the love of his life, during his junior year of college at the Young People's Club of Our Lady of Sorrows Church Bowling League in Chicago. Their courtship included many cherished moments dancing at iconic venues such as the Aragon, Willowbrook, and Paradise Ballrooms. They were united in marriage on October 4, 1952, shortly after his graduation from the Illinois Institute of Technology.

Paul was a devoted father to the late Paula (Ron) Shade, Steven (Denise) Simms, Mary Kathryn Hannig, Thomas (Lorinda) Simms, and Daniel (Dana) Simms. He was a proud grandfather to Sarah (Jose), Rebecca (Robert), Aaron (Michelle), Emily (Todd), Amy (Dave), Kevin (Jessica), Aubrey (James), Zachary, Danielle (Thomas), Clayton (Ashley), Nicholas, and Braden. He also took great joy in being a great-grandfather to Gisele, Avery, Oliver, Carly, Julia, Claire, Hadley, Rowan, Myla, Ellie, Lincoln, Lennox, Lochlan, and Noah. Paul was a loving brother to the late Geraldine (Ralph) Fendrich and Christine Szymczyk.

He earned his engineering degree from the Illinois Institute of Technology, completing his studies during the Korean War. Following his graduation in May 1952, he was recruited to work at the Naval Ordnance Plant for the U.S. Navy. After the conclusion of the war, he embarked on a 33-year career at Teletype Corporation, which later became AT&T, from which he retired in 1985.

A significant aspect of Paul and Arlene's life was their involvement in the CFM Group at St. Raymond's Church. Throughout the years, they formed many enduring friendships that continue to thrive today.

In his retirement, Paul pursued several meaningful endeavors, one of which was teaching “Powder Puff Mechanics” for the Mount Prospect Park District, a course designed to empower local women with essential automotive maintenance skills. He also offered classes for youngsters aimed at teaching them how to repair various items, including bicycles and small appliances. Additionally, Paul enjoyed motorcycling and embarked on cross-country trips with friends during his retirement.

Memorial visitation Saturday, June 7th, 10:00 a.m. until a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. at St. Raymond de Penafort Church, Elmhurst Rd. (Rt. 83) at Lincoln St, Mount Prospect. Inurnment St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery

Information call 847-255-7800 or www.friedrichsFH.com