Laurie Ellen Simon

**Laurie Ellen Simon (née Krakow)**

May 26, 1960 – May 23, 2024

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Laurie Ellen Simon, beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend. Laurie was born on May 26, 1960, in Chicago, Illinois, to Phelicia and Freddie Krakow. From an early age, Laurie lived a colorful and vibrant life. She met Sammy Davis Jr. at the tender age of ten, performed improv on Chicago's famous The Second City stage in her twenties, and appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show in her thirties. Laurie found joy in music, dancing, acting, fashion, and creating art, sharing her passions with all those around her.

Laurie had the gift of gab and was renowned for her skill in "Jewish geography", tracing connections with perfect strangers everywhere she went. Her energy was contagious, and her enthusiasm for life was felt by everyone lucky enough to cross her path. She taught us all what it means to live fully and love deeply.

Despite facing chronic illness, Laurie's spirit remained indomitable. She was positive, motivated, and determined to truly LIVE. Laurie volunteered her time and shared her artistic talents, teaching others to paint and spreading joy through her creativity. Her presence was a beacon of light at City of Hope, where she lifted the spirits of fellow patients by dancing through the halls.

Laurie's greatest loves were her children, Annie and Philip. She went through unimaginable struggles to adopt them as babies, and her love and devotion to them were unwavering. Her husband, Carey Simon, stood by her side through sickness and health, embodying the true essence of love and partnership.

Laurie passed away just three days before her 64th birthday, on May 23, 2024. We take comfort in imagining the grand celebration that awaited her on the other side. Laurie leaves behind her cherished children, Annie and Philip Kaufman; her devoted husband, Carey Simon; her stepmother, Helen Krakow; her sisters, Amy (Jeff) Richardson and Gabrielle (Thomas) Lopresto; her nephews, Joe and Matty Richardson; and her niece, Freddie Lopresto. She is preceded in death by her beloved grandfather, Philip Holzman; her father, Freddie Krakow; and her mother, Phelicia Holzman Krakow.

Laurie will be forever missed and eternally loved by many. Her legacy of love, laughter, and joy will live on in our hearts and memories.

Donations may be made in Laurie's memory to NMDP (National Marrow Donor Program/Be The Match) at https://bethematch.com.