George R. Simard

SIMARD, George R. age 95, peacefully passed away surrounded by his loving family on February 5, 2026. George was born on August 29, 1930 in Brookline, Massachusetts, to Archibald and Irene (Magnant). He attended St. Mary's School through high school, where he was a standout athlete in both football and basketball. After graduating, he married the love of his life, Helen (Osenton), with whom he shared 75 years of marriage. He attended Northeastern University on a football scholarship but left to serve in the Korean War. George and Helen were married before his deployment, and he proudly served his country, attaining the rank of Sergeant. Upon returning home, he joined the Brookline Police Department, where he dedicated 37 years of service to the Town of Brookline. His career culminated in his role as Chief of Police, a position he held from 1980 to 1991. During this time, George also earned his master electrician's license and worked part-time to support his growing family. He attended night school and graduated from Northeastern University with a degree in Criminal Justice-an accomplishment that reflected his strong work ethic and lifelong commitment to learning. George's greatest pride and joy was his family, which grew immensely over the years. He cherished time spent together and took great pride in celebrating their achievements. In retirement, George and Helen became "snowbirds," spending winters in Florida, where they enjoyed golfing well into their 80s. George had a lifelong passion for travel, inspired by his love of reading and history. He and Helen explored the world together, visited every Presidential Library across the country, and shared their love of adventure with their children. George is survived by his beloved wife, Helen, and their six children: Elise Gebhardt and her husband, Jay, of Denver; Robert Simard and his wife, Diane, of Waltham; Lynn O'Leary and her husband, Daniel, of Needham; Paula Wilder and her husband, Scott, of Natick; Sandra White and her husband, William, of Millis; and Michele Joyce and her husband, Kevin, of Wellesley. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. A Funeral Mass will be held in St. Mary of the Assumption Church, 5 Linden Pl., Brookline on Wednesday, February 11th, at 10:00 a.m. Visiting hours have been omitted. Interment will be at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in memory of George Simard may be made to VA Boston Healthcare System ATTN: voluntary service (135), 1400 VFW Parkway, MA 02132 Please state: Hospital In Home or HBPC in the memo section