Gary Richard Simon

Gary Richard Simon

Cedar Rapids

It is with deepest sorrow we announce the death of Gary Richard Simon, 88, of Colorado City, Colo., formerly of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023.

To honor Gary’s memory, a Celebration of Life will be held in Cedar Rapids at a date to be announced.

Gary Richard Simon was born March 27, 1935, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the son of Harley and Mabel (Jordan) Simon. He graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1953 and worked as an electronic assembler at Cherry-Burrell/Evergreen from 1961-1997. On Oct. 9, 1970, Gary married Mary “Dicksie” Wilson in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Together they raised two daughters, Ann and Liz. Gary had the heart of an adventurer and always put family first. He worked passionately to instill his love for adventure in his children and grandchildren. He always planned camping trips, summer vacations, bike rides, canoe trips, and ski vacations. He enjoyed the beauty of nature whether it was in a local park or a national park. He lived in Cedar Rapids until his retirement in 1997. He and Dicksie then bought an RV and spent the next seven years on their grandest adventure traveling across the United States. In 2003 they settled in Colorado City, Colo.

Gary is survived by his wife, Mary Simon of Colorado City, Colo.; daughters, Ann (David) Ashton of Ankeny, Iowa, and Elizabeth (Steve) Simon-Eikanger of Monument, Colo.; grandchildren, Jacob, Tyler and Nicholas Ashton, Ava and Laurel Eikanger; sister Janice (Bill) Mattox of Pea Ridge, Ark.; niece, Brenda Fields and nephew, Billy Mattox. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorial fund: To honor Gary’s adventurous spirit, the family requests those who wish to express sympathy to make a donation to the National Parks Conservation Association in Gary’s name.

https://www.npca.org/give/memorial-tribute-giving

Condolences may be left at www.cedarmemorial.com under obituaries.