Harold "Harry" Steven Simon's Obituary
Harold “Harry” Steven Simon, devoted husband, warmhearted father, and doting grandfather, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2023 at the age of 74.
He is survived by his wife, Nancy Goudeau Simon, his daughters, Celeste Lane and Julianna Bueche, two sons-in-law, Adam Lane and Eric Bueche, and two grandchildren, Sarah and Kevin Lane. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Sylvia Simon, and two brothers, David and Peter Simon.
Harry was born and raised in Buffalo, New York, where he was affectionately called “Howie” by his close family and friends. After high school, he attended Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, where he received a degree in engineering. Later, he moved to Louisiana, where he married the love of his life, Nancy Goudeau Simon. On August 25, 2023, they would have celebrated their 50th anniversary.
Their marriage was one marked by loyalty and devotion. He cared for Nancy with all of his heart and supported her though her various endeavors. Together, they spent much time in their ministry, traveled frequently, and laughed often. He served as the emcee for the Eunice Symphony Orchestra, where he delighted the audience with his unique way of introducing each occasion. Their marriage was beautiful.
Throughout the years, he worked at a variety of office jobs. At each one, he brought a spark of joy to the office through his hard work and witty sense of humor.
Harry’s hobbies were unique. For example, he had extraordinary skills at chess, enjoyed juggling, learned to ride a unicycle, and never tired of telling jokes. He had a knack for finding humor in everyday situations. Learning foreign languages intrigued him, most recently attempting a few Russian words in order to help Russian refugees
Harry noticed the good qualities of others and was eager to offer commendation, spending much time writing letters, sending texts, and phoning friends. A letter in the mailbox from him always brought a smile
More than anything, Harry loved God. He was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses on March 24, 1974. His greatest joy in life was his ministry, to which he devoted many hours. In particular, he enjoyed Sundays, when he would go to a meeting in the morning at the Kingdom Hall and then participate in the ministry afterwards. His kind conversations touched the hearts of many that he met.
Prior to his death, Harry put the following in writing and asked for it to be published in his obituary: "Harry has requested that all his Christian associates participate wholeheartedly in the field ministry this week, and particularly this Saturday morning."
Harry is heartbrokenly missed by his wife, his daughters and sons-in-law, his beloved grandchildren who called him “Papa,” and by so many others who had the chance to know and love this kind man.
A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses at 240 Moosa Boulevard in Eunice, Louisiana.
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