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Mary Simon Obituary
Mary M. Simon, Hortonville, loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, age 59, entered eternal life Saturday, May 9, 2015 peacefully at home with her family by her side. Mary was born in Los Angeles, CA on June 13, 1955, daughter of the late Edward Turek and survived by her mother, Rosemary (Van Camp) Turek. She married David Simon on August 21, 1976 and they celebrated their 38th wedding anniversary this past August. Together, they raised four daughters: Kristine (Matthew) Palmer, Shari (Christopher) Brzinski, Stacy (Andrew) Arendt and Laura (fiancé, Troy Olson) Simon.
Mary found great joy in spending time with family, especially the children. She cheerfully devoted her life to her daughters, nieces and nephews and she cherished her six grandchildren: Adam, Abigail and Cora Palmer, Blake and Kai Brzinski, and Anastasia Arendt. She loved nothing more than to have a minivan full of kids on their way to Bay Beach.
Influenced by her father, Mary was a strong advocate for education. During his retirement she helped him receive his honorary high school diploma because he left school to proudly serve in WWII. Mary also supported all four of her daughters as they pursued college educations and she sat proudly at each graduation ceremony.
Mary always found a way to balance her family life and her personal goals of a higher education with grace. She received her undergraduate degree at the age of 45 with a bachelor of business administration and became a proud and devoted employee at UW Oshkosh for 14 years as the Senior Administrative Program Specialist in the Chancellor's office. Mary obtained her master's degree in public administration at the age of 50 to better serve the students and faculty that she so loved at UW Oshkosh.
Mary is further survived by her beloved brother and sister with their spouses; Edward (Vicky) Turek and Janet (Terry) Brill; her mother in law, LaVera Simon; her sisters in law: Connie (David) Tiedt, Carla (Paul) Bagstad and Cindy (Rodger) Eberly; her brother in law, Leslie (Debbie) Simon and her nieces and nephews: Angela, Shaun (Cassandra) and Michelle Brill; Kathy, Amy and Marcus Turek; Jennifer (Kyle) Stoehr, Jessica (Michael) Johnson, Jill (Matthew) Magill, Lisa (Darrin) Grassman, Michelle (Fred) Noyes, Lance (Nikki) Hoier, Troy (Darcy) Peterson, Joshua (Amber) Peterson, Chase Eberly, Justin (Lavonne) Simon, Nicole Simon-Demerath, Jake (Samantha) Simon.
Friends may visit on Friday, May 15, 2015 from 5 to 8 pm at Borchardt and Moder Funeral Home, Hortonville, WI and on Saturday, May 16, 2015 from 10:30-12:30 am at Saint Edwards Church, Mackville, WI before the hour of service. The mass of resurrection will begin at 12:30 pm with Father Walter Stumpf officiating. Burial will take place in St. Edwards Cemetery after the service.
Thank you to everyone who helped our family during her brave battle with cancer over the last year including the care teams with Theda Care Hospice, Martha Siekman Cancer Center and Froedtert Hospital. We want to give an additional thank you to Todd and Jodie Thompkins and Julie Fronczak along with her mother Jo Pulido.
"Keep your heart open and I will fly in." ~Mary Simon
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Memories and Condolences
for Mary Simon
Richard Wells
May 6, 2020
I asked Mary to join the staff of the UW Oshkosh Chancellors office and served with her for more than a decade. It was one of the very best personnel decisions I made during a forty year plus career in higher education. I will first share here what I said when she passed away in 2015 and then add a five years hence comment in celebration of her life on this Anniversary.
Mary had an enormous and multifaceted impact on all of us. At times she was a great office big sister who cared for us as our own family would in times of need. Many other times she served as a wise colleague/counselor. She was the voice and heart of the Chancellors Office who treated everyone with care, concern and respect. Most importantly, she treated and valued all UW Oshkosh students as if they were her own outstanding daughters. Simply put, Mary was an excellent role model for all of us and while she will be greatly missed, she will continue to live on as an important part of each of us and many others. Richard Wells, May 12, 2015.
Over the past five years I have, on several occasions, thought about Mary with both tears in my eyes and a smile on my face. Remembering her and how she shouldered her challenges and help others hoist the heavy crosses we all have/are/will carry, gives me much hope and optimism for all our children's and grandchildrens futures. We are, of course, facing unique, deeply challenging and transitional times. Nonetheless, if we take some inspiration from the altruistic way Mary lived her life, then as we develop our new normal the positive changes will eventually far outweigh the costs and the negative changes. Marys life was and her memory are exemplars for resilience, character building, and, most importantly, loving people and living life to its fullest.
Richard Wells
UW Oshkosh Chancellor 2000-2014
Lynn Bellile
May 5, 2020
THE CLASS OF 1973 MISS YOU AND YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN OUR HEARTS.
Laura Rommelfanger
May 5, 2019
I think of Mary just about every day. She was like a big sister to me and I dearly miss our conversations on just about every topic imaginable. Mary gave the best life advice.
My family and I remember her most for her dimpled smile and kind heart. Mary would always greet my girls with such warmth and joy .... they just loved to come to the office to see her. We have so many wonderful memories. She will forever be remembered.
Elaine Bohman
October 29, 2015
I just heard of Mary's passing. Mary was such a kind and happy person with that beautiful smile on her face. I'm so sorry for your loss. You will be missed.
Michael Schlimm
May 18, 2015
Sad to hear one of our classmates from Hortonville has passed away. It was however wonderful to hear and see the people Mary touched in her life. My thoughts and prayers are with Mary and her family.
Love, Rod and Cindy
May 16, 2015
Still doesn't seem real...sending more love and prayers to all of you and praying for strength to get thru today, tomorrow and days ahead. Never seen Mary without a smile, gonna miss that! She reached out and touched a lot of hearts.
Linda Rice
May 15, 2015
Although I had just recently met Mary, it was obvious that she loved her family so very much. She will be greatly remembered and fondly missed.
Tom Grogan & Patricia Schweitzer
May 15, 2015
Mary's energetic and engaging spirit, coupled with her positive enthusiasm for the challenges of living, working, learning and growing all combined to make her a true treasure. She will be sorely missed. She is already.
Rose Mansell
May 15, 2015
I know that we live in the lives of those we touch. I have felt in me the living presence of many I have loved and who have loved me.
-Elizabeth Watson
She was very proud of her entire family and loved you all very much. As your wife, mother, grandmother, I know she was an integral part of all your lives providing that special touch of love and care that she can only provide. Her gracious loving touch extended out to others as well. I am glad to have been one of them.
Mary was good friend and I will miss her.
Dave and Connie Tiedt
May 14, 2015
Dave and family, as I sit here reading all these kind words about Mary, it just doesn't seem real. I feel like we were all just together for Mom's birthday, and she looked so beautiful and seemed like she was on her way to getting healthy again. She was so positive , and determined. Dave and girls, you fought that battle right beside her every minute, and never gave up. But God had a different plan for her. My heart goes out to all of you, she will be missed as a wife, mom, grandmother, sister and friend. We'll never forget her, we'll hold onto all the wonderful memories we've all made with her. Our prayers have now changed to asking God to give you strength in the days ahead. Love and hugs to you all.
Kathy Lutzke
May 14, 2015
I am so saddened to hear of your lose. Mary was such a joy to be around and her laughter and smile lit up a room. She always had kind words for everyone. She will be truly missed by all of her friends at UW Oshkosh. Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Gerry & Lois Loos
May 14, 2015
Dear Ed, Janet and families: We are saddened to learn of Judy' passing. We pray that you feel Our Lord's Strength and Presence as you walk this difficult path. Sincerely,
Margaret Perrie
May 14, 2015
Mary will be truly missed. She always made a Healthy Titan exercise class more fun. She always had such a cheerful demeanor and beautiful smile.
May 14, 2015
I will always remember that wonderful smile and warm heart. I am so very sorry for your loss.
-Maripat Fitzgerald
Rodger and Cindy Eberly
May 14, 2015
David, you fought so hard for Mary! I have never heard of anyone doing so much research! For someone that was never on a computer to someone that was on there every spare minute you had. We are so proud of you and the girls for everything you did to keep Mary's hope up and keep her comfortable. Staying by her side day and night. You certainly devoted yourself to her thru this difficult time. She certainly earned her wings. And now she is watching over you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your girls and their families. May you have peace knowing she is in heaven and is finally at peace. Our hearts ache for the girls and their families I can not imagine the pain they are in losing their mother and grandmother at such a young age. Mary was such a bubbly woman, with a huge heart and such a joy to have her as our sister in law. She will be missed so much by so many! If there is anything you need please let us know. Sending our love to all of you!
Deb Nall Rodriguez
May 13, 2015
My deepest sympathy. May you all find comfort in knowing she is with our Lord.
Richard DeWitt
May 13, 2015
David, My condolences to you and your family,
Susie Gustke
May 13, 2015
My deepest sympathy to Mary's family. She will be deeply missed here at UW Oshkosh. Prayers and thoughts for the family. God Bless you all.
Dana Robinson
May 13, 2015
Mary was such a great person to do work for, always pleasant. Sorry for a loss this great to the Family
Julia Canady
May 12, 2015
Your lovely smile will be missed. You are now with our Heavenly Father and pain free.
Jamie Schmidt Spice
May 12, 2015
My deepest sympathy to Mary's family. She will be greatly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Marty
May 12, 2015
I always enjoyed working with Mary, she always had a smile. She will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with all who are dealing with this great loss. Rest in peace Mary, we love you.
Kristin Soto
May 12, 2015
I am so sorry for the loss of such a wonderful woman...God has gained another angel that will definitely be watching over her entire family.
Nancie De Witt Sprangers
May 12, 2015
So Sorry to hear about Mary. She was a pleasure to be around when both families got together. Dan and I will be there Saturday.
Nancie Sprangers
May 12, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Andy & Pat Pernitz
May 12, 2015
We are so sorry for the loss of your beautiful Mother. She always had a ready smile for all. Not only were her daughters the joy and pride of her life, but all her adorable grandchildren whom she adored. With great sadness,
Briana Steiner
May 12, 2015
Mary was always such a bright light in my day. I loved caring for her, and visiting with her. People like Mary are the reason why I work in the field that I do, it breaks your heart, but it also opens it and makes you so much of a better person as well. I will miss her smile and those beautiful head wraps, that are truly works of art.
Ellen Hinz
May 12, 2015
My sympathies to Mary's family. May the peace of the Lord be with you. I so remember her smile when she came to drop off or pick up at preschool many years ago.
Randy & Sarah VanCamp
May 12, 2015
Mary's smile could light up a room and her kind and generous heart was like no other. She exuded joy and made all around her feel happy. Heaven has truly gained a very special angel. Out thoughts and prayers are with all of the family who will miss her sass amd love of life so very much!!
Gerald Van Camp
May 12, 2015
I still remember seeing you that first day back from Cal. Your smile & bare feet were your signature growing up. You will always be missed. Say hi to Grandpa & Grandma, God has his best now. Cousin Jerr
CLASS OF 1973
May 12, 2015
From the "Class of 1973" you will be for ever missed. Because of all your help and organization our last class reunion was such a success. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Your smile will truly be missed.
JoAnn Ebben
May 12, 2015
I was sorry to here of Mary's passing. I will truly miss her beautiful smile. All my prayers to her family.
Theresa Tesch
May 12, 2015
Mary was a beautiful soul,the family has my sympathy.
Dawn Balthazor
May 12, 2015
So sorry for your loss. Mary's beautiful smile will never be forgotten. Hugs and much love to all~
Mike & Laura Erickson
May 12, 2015
Mary could light up any room with her effervescent smile. The last time I saw her she positively beamed when I told her we had finally welcomed a grandchild into our fold. Oh! she proclaimed with pure joy, There is nothing better than the love of being a grandparent! How right she is. We miss her smile already. Prayers of peace to her beautiful daughters, to her many grandchildren and to the love of her life, Dave.
May 12, 2015
My husband and I both worked with Mary at the former Consolidated Mill - she was always a breath of fresh air especially when she smiled and giggled. What a wonderful wife and Mom you were all blessed with. My sympathies to all of you. Rosemary Mitchler
Heidi Heidenreich Nowicki
May 12, 2015
I feel like a light has gone out of the world. Mary was always a mischievous grin, a twinkling eye, a warm heart. She was such a joy with which to work. My warmest thoughts of her go out to her family and those closest to her; may you find peace in the love she felt for you.
Val and Tom McHugh
May 11, 2015
Mary's friendly, warm smile will be dearly missed in our neighborhood. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Jim Chitwood
May 11, 2015
When visiting the Chancellors' office, I always look forward to being greeted by Mary's beautiful smile. Having fond memories of Mary, tonight and always.
Susan Nuernberg
May 11, 2015
God takes those he loves best young. I worked in the Chancellor's office for 7 years with Mary, and she was the heart and soul of the whole operation. I miss her smile, her sense of humor and her brave heart too much. She was just the best. My sympathies to her family and friends. I know what sadness you are experiencing with this tremendous loss.
Lisa Denzer
May 11, 2015
Thinking of you Kristi, your sisters and family. What a great legacy your mom created.
Dana Christoph
May 11, 2015
She has the most beautiful family. This speaks worlds about the love she gave and the souls she touched. Our heart and condolences go out to you. Love Dana, Clay and Shane Christoph
Mary Anderson
May 11, 2015
I will greatly miss seeing Mary's beautiful smile and cheery attitude. I haven't seen Mary much since the kids have left high school but from time to time I would run into her at church etc and it was always fun to say hi and catch up! I'm so sorry for the loss of wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister and friend. May her love for all comfort you! God Bless!
Toby Formiller
May 11, 2015
It was a honor and privilege to have known Mary. She was a wondeful person. I am very grateful to have known her. To the family of Mary, you have my deepest sympathy.
Kelly Hudson
May 11, 2015
My deepest sympathy to Mary's family, friends and co-workers. I have had the pleasure to work with Mary for several years. Her smile and joyful heart were felt by all. She will be dearly missed.
May 11, 2015
Mary, you & I have a lot in common. We were both born in California, we were the oldest of our siblings, we were great role models, well maybe more you than me and we grew up across the road from each other. I'll always remember when you came into the room to visit Mom just before she passed away and how you seemed to brighten up that room. It was very heart warming. I'm sure you and her have a lot to talk about. We haven't seen each other for awhile and I'll regret that, but Mom will get you up to speed. Will miss you
Cousin Fred
Fred & Toni Ringel Family
May 11, 2015
Mary was always happy and positive. We will all miss her!
Sharon Hoeper
May 11, 2015
Mary will be truly missed!!!
Bob and Sharon Hoeper
May 11, 2015
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Donnajean Banda
May 11, 2015
My heart goes out to your family, My kids and Mary's kids were not only classmates but friends and playmates for years. Rest in peace in our Lord's arms.
David and Geri Pavlik
May 11, 2015
Mary was a wonderful friend. She will be greatly missed. Our love and prayers go to Dave and family.
Beatriz Contreras
May 11, 2015
Always a warm smile and pleasant words. It was a pleasure to have known and worked with Mary at UW Oshkosh. Thank You Mary!
Jill Reichenberger
May 11, 2015
I was so very saddened to hear of Mary's passing. So terribly saddened. She and I were good friends at the University. I was her aerobic instructor for years. We had some really good laughs! I am so thankful that we were able to have lunch together a few weeks ago. I will miss her, she was a wonderful person. My sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Kim Waring (Kettner)
May 11, 2015
My heart goes to you girls and Dave!! Truly wonderful lady that you all had the honor to have in your life. I know you will all make sure she will never been forgotten. My prayers are with you all!!
May 11, 2015
Mary was bright smile when things looked dim. She could always brighten any day. Her family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Brenda Garza
Cindy Schultz
May 11, 2015
Laura and the rest of the family, I am so very sorry for your loss. Mary always had a smile on her face and I LOVED working with her over the years. Her beautiful smile and spirit will be greatly missed at UW Oshkosh! My thoughts and prayers are with you all!!
Jean Reed
May 11, 2015
Mary was such a wonderful friend in our years growing up at St. Edwards School. She always had a great outlook on life, and I hoped somehow I could be like her! God bless your whole family as you celebrate her life..
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Borchardt & Moder Funeral Homes - Hortonville109 W Main St, Hortonville, WI 54944
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