Dolores Arloa Simon

1929 - 2025

Dolores Arloa Simon

April 7, 1929 - January 29, 2025

Pacific Grove, California - Dolores A Simon, nee Calkins, also known as our Aunt Dodie and Aunt Dorie, passed away peacefully on January 29th, 2025 at the age of 95. A woman ahead of her times, Dolores will be remembered for her unquenchable love for life. As a young woman, Dolores moved from her small hometown of Oregon, Illinois to Santa Barbara, California, where she met her husband Victor W Simon. They married in April 1954 and were inseparable for 63 years. Together they started and operated a small business in San Louis Obispo for 35 years.

Dolores is predeceased by her parents, Charlotte and Walter Calkins, her husband, Victor Simon, her 2 brothers and 6 sisters, and several nephews. After the passing of her husband in 2017, Dolores moved to the Monterey Peninsula to be closer to her niece, Terri. Dolores was committed to her family and leaves behind a wealth of beloved nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, great-grand nieces and great-grand-nephews all across the United States and abroad.

Dolores was incredibly quick and smart, disarming people fooled by her appearance of bright floral patterns and love of stuffed animals and dolls. She treated every day with a purpose and was fiercely independent, garnering respect from all those who cared for her as she aged. She had strong opinions on most matters, and a sense of humor that delighted all who encountered her. Dolores was never scared to be herself and was a beacon of confidence and self-love, an inspiration to those she knew. She would often be heard saying "I don't know how to be anyone other than myself!" The family appreciates the kind and loving care she received at Canterbury Woods and CHOMP. In lieu of services, the family asks that you savor an afternoon glass of Budweiser beer and find gratitude for being alive. Donations in her memory may be made to Peace of Mind Dog Rescue Home or Animal Friends Rescue Project of Monterey County.