Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Abraham Simon Obituary
WILKES-BARRE — Abraham J. "Abe" Simon, 53, of Wilkes-Barre, passed away unexpectedly Sunday, Sept. 14, 2014, at his home.
Born in Wilkes-Barre, Abe was the son of Abraham Jr. and Bernadine Verbetich Simon, Dallas. He was a graduate of Dallas Area High School, class of 1979, and Bloomsburg University, class of 1983, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in political science. Abe later attended Scranton University receiving a Master of Science degree in educational administration.
While attending Bloomsburg University, Abe was active in ROTC and a U.S. Army Reservist. He was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in 1982.
In 1983, Abe began his teaching career at Gate of Heaven School, Dallas, as an algebra teacher, eventually becoming the school's principal. He remained there until its closing, finishing a 27 year career with Gate of Heaven School.
Abe was currently the academic vice-principal at Holy Redeemer High School, Wilkes-Barre.
He enjoyed golfing, cooking and was an avid fan of all sports. Abe coached boys and girls basketball leading Bishop O'Reilly to state semi-finals and finals. He also coached baseball, softball and football.
Abe was active with the Knights of Columbus and was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Pittston.
Surviving, in addition to his parents, are his daughter, Rachel Simon, Wilkes-Barre; brothers, Bernard Simon, Nanticoke, Joseph Simon, Dallas; sisters, Carlene Miller, Nanticoke, Leann Booth and her husband, Ron, Levittown, Deann Parry, Lehman; numerous nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10 a.m. Thursday in St. Nicholas Church, 226 S. Washington St., Wilkes-Barre. Entombment will be made in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton. Friends may call from 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesday in Gate of Church, 40 Machell Ave., Dallas.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Abraham J. Simon Memorial Scholarship, c/o Luzerne Bank, Lake Office, corners of Route 118 & 415, Dallas, PA 18612.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Harold C. Snowdon Funeral Home Inc., 140 N. Main St., Shavertown, PA 18708.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Abraham Simon
Genevieve Blanc
October 11, 2014
Mr. Simon was a teacher you never forgot. Somehow math ended up being only a small piece of what I took away from his class. Among the algebra and the jokes, he managed to teach us the critical thinking skills we needed no matter the subject, and encouraged us all to be courageous in our own way.
Thank you, Mr. Simon.
Tina Gabel-Hilenski
September 24, 2014
I am in shock that such a wonderful man has left this earth way to soon. God Bless his soul and his family. So very sad. I am glad I had a chance to meet him. Only heard great things about him.
Justin Emershaw
September 20, 2014
I can still remember sitting in Mr. Simon's math class at GOH like it was yesterday. Mr. Simon was by far one of the best math teachers I've ever had throughout my academic career. He would always take the time to thoroughly explain everything while making the class fun and interesting. As a student who always struggled in mathematics, Mr. Simon was always willing to sit one-on-one with me and help me understand the material. Even after graduation, Mr. Simon still helped in advising me during my struggles throughout my college career. Now, nine years later, I still look back at all the fond memories I have of his class and all that I have learned from him. Thanks for everything Mr. Simon, you will be missed!! RIP
-Justin Emershaw (GOH Class 05')
Mining Engineer, Cliffs Natural Resources.
K. J.
September 19, 2014
My sincere condolences to the Simon Family
Although I was 11 years your senior it was always Mr. Simon. It was back in 2010 summer and you were doing work painting or carpentering at GOH school, I first called you Abe.
First thing you said "How are the boys." There isn't thank you for your patience, understanding, clowning around, after school tutoring and home tutoring. You made helped my son gain his self confidence. You played foot ball with the boys at recess along with Father Sullivan. My eldest son was fortunate to have you in both 5th and 7th grade. Confirmation was in Oct. Chris said to me, "I think I'd like to ask Mr.Simon to be my sponsor He asked and you said you would be honored. You also sponsored another 8th grader, a girl.
You kept giving him confidence and praise, at that confirmation the Bishop asked many questions. He asked one and I heard my son's answer, you were in the front pews and we were in the back pews to the left somehow through all those people you and I looked at one another and you winked. Both boys had the opportunity of a lifetime having you as their teacher and we always will feel we were honored. I find it so hard to believe you won't be for your kids here on earth but in heaven and you can look down and see all your students you ever had. You then can see all the young minds that you inspired in a positive manor and those who achieve and become what they are today. There wasn't a present, nor especially prior student that said," Mr. Simon was the best teacher they every had."I thank you for being your friend and the boys' teacher. God Bless and thank you for being in a man who wasn't proud, but humble. Rachael your dad was one in a million, and though grieving is a process reading all these accolades, I hope you can see all the lives your dad has touched, not only the students but fellow teachers, principals and parents. He was loved and will be loved and remember in our minds and hearts.
September 19, 2014
To the family of Mr Simon,
What a wonderful teacher and all around great guy! Had him in elementary school for math, and never forgot the time he challenged me to get first honors or he said he'd eat my pet turtle!! Needless to say, I got first honors that quarter!! He was a fabulous teacher, outstanding person, and coach and very memorable guy...can't say enough good about him...will be very much missed...will never forget his GOH math classes and basketball pointers...Thanks Mr S for all you did for everybody...Susannah Stair-Holderer
Rick Ritts
September 19, 2014
My Daughter was a GOH student and still talks about Mr. Simon. A wonderful human being who will be missed by many. Godspeed Mr. Simon.
Rick and Alese Ritts
Taylor
September 18, 2014
Mr. Simon will be greatly missed. He was the one person in administration that knew everyone's name. Always there if you needed something or just in the hall greeting us every morning. Holy Redeemer will not be the same. My thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends.
September 18, 2014
Mr. Simon was a wonderful teacher. He taught many of my siblings at Gate of Heaven. He would be hard on you sometimes, but he wanted everyone to work to the best of their abilities. He was a great educator and a person to look up to. Our deepest condolences to his family. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Latosek Family
The Griswold Family
September 18, 2014
Dear Rachel,
The Griswold Family sends you prayers to get through these sad days. God Bless You!
September 18, 2014
Sadly missed
charlene Burton (simon)
September 17, 2014
God bless and prayers to our family. May the angels wings comfort y'all. R.I.P tell everyone I said hello.
Mare
September 17, 2014
Holy Redeemer isn't going to be the same without you, Mr. Simon. I know you were always there for me, and for all of us. Thank you for being the wonderful man you were. I am privileged to be able to say that I knew you. I'm sorry I never brought you those pretzels.
Donna Luckenbill
September 17, 2014
So glad I had the opportunity to have the friendship of such a great man. Rest easy Abe. You will be missed.
Mary Humiston
September 17, 2014
I will deeply miss your support and friendship. HRHS will not be the same.
cheryl parsons kreitzer
September 17, 2014
sorry for your loss prayers for the family he was a very nice man and fun to be around
Tami Quaglietti-Farley
September 17, 2014
I knew Abe in high school. It sounds like he turned out to be quite a remarkable man. My sincere sympathy to the Simon family.
Laura (Charnick) Zielinski
September 17, 2014
Mr. Simon was an amazing teacher in every sense of the word and his classes are my fondest memories of GOH middle school. Because of him, I'm an editor/writer who also loves math -- I don't know anyone in my field who feel the same, but then again they never had Mr. Simon guide them and make them feel empowered in a subject that didn't come naturally. I'll always remember him with a full heart.
Greg Manusky
September 17, 2014
My heart and prayers out to the Simon family
Trish Ricker- Kristan
September 17, 2014
I knew you first as a neighbor, the nice guy who hung up our basketball hoop. I knew you next as a teacher.
One who remembered little things about each of his students, what sports they played, what interested them out side of school, where they struggled. You taught me any many others the lyrics the Eleanor Rigby, you taught us to balance check books and to take pride in our work.
You saw us through the loss of parents and grandparents. For many of us, you were a steady force of right and wrong.
I can never thank you enough and wish you peace and your family comfort.
Donald Walutes
September 16, 2014
Abe,
I am going to miss you. I will always have fond memories of teaching and coaching with you at Gate of Heaven. I am not matter how much time passed before we would see each other; we picked up right where we left off. If I had a best friend it was you. To many wonderful times teaching at Gate of Heaven.
Charles Verbetich
September 16, 2014
Aunt Bernie and Uncle Abe.....so sorry for your loss...very sad when someone leaves us so young....but he is in a better place waiting for the rest of us to come hanging out with grandma..grandpa...aunt Teresa...uncle harry uncle reed....and my dad...and the rest of our family who have gone....looking down and smiling...we will see each other again.....sending love and prayers to the family
September 16, 2014
Condolences from the LEHMAN Family
Kristen Czwalina Forster
September 16, 2014
Mr. Simon taught us to work hard and believe in ourselves, and that we could do and be anything we ever dreamed. He taught us not only about algebraic equations and word problems, but about life and the people we wanted to be. All those who had the honor and privilege to be in his class were forever changed by his lessons and left better for it. I think of those lessons fondly now as I raise my own daughter. Thank you for being such a large part of my life and giving me the tools to succeed. I will be forever grateful to have been in your class.
My deepest condolences to the Simon Family. My thoughts and prayers are with your in this difficult time.
September 16, 2014
Thanks for being the person you were.
Denise Jordan
September 16, 2014
I am so sorry for your loss of this great man and amazing teacher. I had the privilege of knowing him as a great teacher at Gate of Heaven school and my children were lucky to have had Mr. Simon as their math teacher. He taught them lessons they will carry with them forever. R.I.P. you will be missed.
Harold Bolton
September 16, 2014
I will always remember playing football, track, and volleyball with Abe. Take care of all our dearly departed classmates from the class of 79.My sincere sympathy to his daughter and family.
Jacob Baldrica
September 16, 2014
Mr.Simon was a great principal at GOH. Im so sorry to learn he has passed. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
September 16, 2014
Mr Simon, All I can say is thank you.
'89
Kendra (Reid) Hinson
September 16, 2014
To the Family of Abe Simon:
Our hearts go out to you in this time of mourning. His students will always hold him dear to their hearts. We pray that you will feel God's comfort through this difficult time.
Mr. Simon,
You inspired me to be a teacher and your kind heart and patience allowed me to gain confidence. You will be in my heart forever and you will be missed by so many. Several times throughout my teaching career I have referenced you to my students. Other times I thought, man, I wish I had the "power" of Mr. Simon to reach my students.:) You did more than teach... you guided us through the hardest times of middle school. Your legacy will last forever.
RIP-
See you in heaven!
Rich Reinard
September 16, 2014
Sorry for your loss Joe...I know how your feeling....lost my dad 2 years ago....stay strong.
Colleen Wisnewski
September 16, 2014
My sincere condolences, my thoughts are with you
Maureen Paley
September 16, 2014
Mr. Simon, thank you for committing your life to being a great teacher--in and out of the classroom.
Sue Booth
September 16, 2014
My sincere condolences to Rachel, his loving daughter.
May your memories of Dad offer you comfort!
September 16, 2014
I am so very sad to hear of your passing. I feel so fortunate to have had you as my teacher. You made me love (and sometimes despise) math but never let me give up. You made me work hard because you saw my potential. You taught me so many things about life that I couldn't learn from a textbook… and I made sure to always have my homework done so I wouldn't get a “size 9 in the rear”. Thanks for everything. My sincere condolences to the Simon family.
Carolyn (Hayer) Banks
GOH ‘95
Deanna Mennig
September 16, 2014
You were the best of the best. Thank you for your love and dedication to our children. You will never be forgotten.
Beth Ufnar
September 16, 2014
Mr. Simon was truly a wonderful, funny, engaging, and demanding teacher. He made math make sense, and made you proud of your accomplishments. I am so so sorry to hear that he passed, and know that I am blessed to have had him for a teacher. Good bye Mr Simon, and thank you.
Joan & Bill Wagner
September 16, 2014
Dear Simon family,
Many students have lost a great educator! Our condolences are extended to you during this difficult time.
Joan and Bill Wagner
Shavertown
M. Class of '92
September 16, 2014
Your deeds speak for themselves, Mr Simon. I know I'll never forget your math classes at GOH. But we learned so much more, and those things we carry, and they still serve us well. You touched thousands of lives, and they are all better for it. though you have left us too soon, all that you have taught us, remains. And we shall always remember. Your work is done now, rest well sir.
Joan Hoggarth
September 16, 2014
Thank you for being a positive influence in the students lives. Your interactions with my sons will forever be in their memories. You will be missed. God Bless you. The Hoggarth Family.
September 16, 2014
You were a wonderful math teacher for both of our children, who were happy to have you as their teacher. So sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with your family.
The Seybert Family
sydney smith
September 16, 2014
God Bless the Simon family on the loss of a great man. Holy Redeemer will never be the same without him. Prayers go out. Saint Anne and Saint Brigid of Ireland pray for him.
Holy Redeemer High School Class of 2013
Susan Liskowicz
September 16, 2014
I am at a loss for words.... On behalf of the Liskowicz family, the entire Simon family is in our thoughts and prayers. Our son Mark (current senior), speaks very highly of Mr. Simon. He remembers him for his kindness, sense of humor and approachability. He will never be forgotten by the students he has touched and made an impression on.
September 16, 2014
The Calpin family of Shavertown extends our deepest sympathy to the Simon family. My children, Tommy and Terri, have known Mr. Simon since they started school at Gate of Heaven and Holy Redeemer. He was a great educator in so many ways -- caring about students as individuals with their own hopes, dreams, and aspirations. He will be truly missed by many but his legacy will live on.
The Calpin Family
Shavertown, Pa.
Nettie Ginocchetti
September 16, 2014
Mr Simon,
You taught me how to write checks, balance a checkbook, you stole my snacks from my brown bag lunch during math class and you nicknamed me "Squeak." It is an honor to have been one of your GOH students - class of 1992. You're family is in my thoughts and prayers, and forever in my heart. XOXO Love, Squeak
Jessica Linskey Lane
September 16, 2014
Words cannot express how thankful and lucky I feel to have had Mr. Simon as a mentor in my first teaching position here at Holy Redeemer. I will use his advice and wisdom always to ensure that he will live on through students to come.
To Rachel and all of the Simon family- I sincerely thank you for sharing this wonderful person with all of us. My deepest condolences to each one of you.
Sue Booth
September 16, 2014
Deepest sympathy to the family on the passing of your beloved Son and Brother, Abe.
May your cherished memories bring you comfort!
September 16, 2014
Dearest Family of Abe Simon:
A beautiful spirit leaves traces of love and goodness on every life... on all of us, but most of all, the multitude of students who had the pleasure of being taught by Mr. Simon in a catholic school environment. He gave our children so much of himself. Let us all honor his legacy. Rest in peace, Mr. Simon.
Ella Bella
Karen Hannis
September 16, 2014
Although my son just transferred to Holy Redeemer this year, Mr Simon made quite an impression on him. Mr Simon always asked him how he was doing, both academically and personally. He made my son feel comfortable at his new school. He will truely be missed. Thank you Mr. Simon
September 16, 2014
A wonderful educator has been taken from us. God felt his work here was done. We have someone to look to as a model.
Frank Terescavage
September 16, 2014
Mr. Simon was my favorite teacher at Gate of Heaven. He was a great mentor who truly cared about people and taught things that couldn't be learned in a text book. God bless you and your family
Rey Family
September 16, 2014
We are sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers. You have inspired many students. The lessons you have taught them, and the example you have set for them will never be forgotten.
Katie Olean
September 16, 2014
I'm so heartbroken over the loss of Abe. I've never known a better man. He loved his daughter and family more than anything in this world and was a true and loyal friend. His compassion for his students was amazing. His commitment to education was unmatched. The loss of this wonderful man is a loss for the entire community. I will miss you my dear friend.
September 16, 2014
A wonderful teacher and mentor to young people, may your memories bring your family comfort during this difficult time- God Bless
Kate and Garry Taroli
September 16, 2014
We have two children who had Mr. Simon at Gate of Heaven. He was an awesome teacher. Such a way with young people. The education community will certainly miss you. Thank you for all you did for all children.
Dr. Sal Ferraro
September 16, 2014
Abe, though many years and miles have separated us, I have often thought of our friendship and our shared friends on and off the golf course. I will never forget the day I introduced you to Sr. Davida at Gate of Heaven. You were a gift to your students and will be missed by all. We wish you and the Simon family our deepest condolences. Dr. Sal Ferraro and Wife Betsy, Palm Harbor, Florida.
Alyssa Maria
September 16, 2014
Mr. Simon - you were a source of strength and a man of character. I felt confidence with you at the helm of our schools. You will be dearly missed.
Sandee Simon-McCarron
September 16, 2014
Abe and Bernie and children, so sorry to hear of your loss.
Cousin-Sandee Simon McCarron
September 16, 2014
Abe was a wonderful man. He was very kind to me. I shall always be grateful for his kindness. Abe, you will be missed very much.
Sincere condolences to you Rachel and all your family.
Claire Marie Kulp, IHM
Roy Wall
September 16, 2014
A good friend and a better man. There are a whole generation of children whose lives you impacted in a positive way. Rest In Peace My Friend.
Class of '92
September 16, 2014
Great teacher and great guy! Rest in peace, Mr. Simon.
Ken and Sandra Charney
September 16, 2014
Very sorry to hear of Abe's passing. A good man.
Robert Jordan
September 16, 2014
A great teacher and a great person. You made an impact on so many people's lives. You and your family are in my prayers.
Miss Frusciante
September 16, 2014
He made me feel confident as a first year teacher. His guidance and support will never be forgotten by the teachers at Holy Redeemer.
Deanna Mennig
September 16, 2014
Thank You Abe. You were one of the finest.
Chris Mochin
September 16, 2014
Very sorry to hear the loss of this tremendous person and educator. I coached basketball with Abe at Gate of Heaven and Bishop O'Reilly and never met a more passionate man who loved coaching and teaching more than Abe did... It was an honor to share the coaching bench and friendship with him. Rest in peace...
September 15, 2014
Mr simon you were both of my childrens favorite teachers at Gate of Heaven
Joann and Jeff Griswold
September 15, 2014
God Bless you and your family.
We enjoyed you coaching our girls basketball games at Gate of Heaven. Rest in peace.
September 15, 2014
He will be missed. Our family is very sad. God Bless the Simon family. Please know our hearts are with you all. Gone too soon.
*The Sedlak Family
Guy Jugus
September 15, 2014
A truly genuine person and BEST Friend. I will miss you. Thank you for your great friendship. Rest in peace my friend.
jackie shaver
September 15, 2014
Bernie
My heart goes out to you and your family. What a terrible loss.
Jackie shaver
Janice Amarando Szczechowicz
September 15, 2014
Abe was a mentor and a good friend. He was a hard worker. Abe was always there when I needed him and he supported me. He taught my 4 children math skills that helped them understand concepts which they now use in college. He was an inspiration to them.
Thanks for everything, Abe.
Janice Amarando Szczechowicz
Jennifer (Thoma) Breton
September 15, 2014
I was so sad to hear of your passing. You made such an impact on your many students--including me (GOH class of 91). My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this difficult time.
james stavridis
September 15, 2014
Abe had the pleasure of having you as a football coach and. Coaching with you. You will be missed.
September 15, 2014
Thanks Abe for everything....
Joanne Gorski
September 15, 2014
Truly a role model for the children he taught. RIP Mr. Simon. You will be missed. The Gorski Family
September 15, 2014
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
September 15, 2014
Abraham you will be greatly missed.
Jennifer Welby
September 15, 2014
Truly a favorite teacher and role model, Mr. Simon will always be remembered as one of the best. His style of teaching inspired how I instruct students in my own classroom. Mr. Simon will always be remembered in my favorite Gate of Heaven memories. Thank you for being so influential! Your GOH student (Class of 94), Jenni 'Bo Benny' Bernick
Bill Jenkins
September 15, 2014
A true gentleman, who taught students more than what you'd find in a text book - God Bless Mr Simon and his family.
Showing 1 - 80 of 80 results
Make a Donation
in Abraham Simon's name
Memorial Events
for Abraham Simon
How to support Abraham's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Abraham Simon's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
