Lena Simko

The spectacular Lena Simko left her earthly body on 2/24/24 at the age of 21, after 2 years of navigating challenges from appendiceal cancer. 

Lena had a bright presence that drew people in when they met her. She invested in all her friends' happiness, giving her time, compassion, and support. She was passionate about cooking and prepared phenomenal dishes, from charcuterie trays and out-of-this-world soups to main courses and elegant desserts. Her baked goods have a reputation that will live long beyond her years. As if by magic, she could taste and identify singular ingredients in a dish, and she intuitively knew how to improve the recipe. She was quick-witted like her dad, gentle and kind, curious and stubborn, and tough as nails when necessary. And those nails were always gorgeous because she loved getting manicures with her sweet friend Emily. She was generous with her love, time, and unexpected thoughtful gifts. Although she preferred to sing privately, her voice was soothing and joyful and will continue to resonate in our hearts. Lena loved fiercely and fully. She celebrated differences and lifted the hearts of anyone she could. We are all blessed to have known her. She would be mad as hell for all of the attention her loss brings, but her life was too glorious for anything less. She deserves to be remembered for her sass, thoughtfulness, twinkling eyes, and heart-warming smile. Although we prayed to keep her here with us, she now watches over her mom and sisters with her father by her side.

Lena was born to John Simko and Veronica Valz in 2002. She joined her sisters, Maxine and Ella, to complete the family with her stunning blue eyes and a contagious giggle. She is survived by her mom, Max, Ella, and her chosen sister, Emily; Grandmother, Rita Smith; Grandfathers, Joe Valz and John Simko; Aunts Jennifer Hatch, Audrey Jackson, Aunt Diane and Uncle Fran Simko; Cousins Jennifer O’Neill, Joe Ewing, Hannah, Nora, Sophie, and Claire Hatch, Maddy Jackson; and a large and loving extended family. She is predeceased by her father, John, and grandmother, Rosanne Simko.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to her medical team at UVMMC, with extra special appreciation to the exceptional nursing crew on Miller 5 including Hannah, Sarah, Molly and Annette, to Dr. Conor O'Neill for his gentle nature and great skill and to Bill, Madison and Sam in the ICU who never stopped trying. 

Visiting Hours are Friday, March 1st, 2024, from 3:00pm to 6:00pm at Minor’s Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Milton, the prayer service with Father Feltz will begin at 5:45pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Ann’s on Saturday, March 2nd, 2024, beginning at 11:00am. A reception will follow at the Milton Grange. Graveside service to be held on May 18th, 2024 at 11:30am in the Milton Village Cemetery.

We will forever miss you, Lena.