Obituary of Robert Ward Simon

Robert W. Simon was born June 25, 1929 in Rochester, Minnesota where he spent his youth, and graduated from Rochester High School in June 1947. Robert died in Denver, Colorado June 23, 2014 from injuries received in an automobile accident on May 21st in Clayton, New Mexico. Bob enlisted in the Army in 1948 serving until 1974. He served in the Korean War December 1950 through February 1953 and the Vietnam War August 1965 through August 1966. Bob was stationed in Germany twice, and in many of the Military Posts in the U.S. He was also assigned to civilian component advisor duty in Texas and Massachusetts. His awards include the Bronze Star Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, numerous campaign medals, Distinguished Unit Citations, and other awards. He spent two seasons in the Army advanced Marksmanship program as a competitive pistol shooter, competing throughout the U.S. and earning the Distinguished Pistol Shot designation.After retiring from the Army, the family settled in Colorado Springs. Bob held a variety of jobs, culminating as manager of a hardware store. Next came involvement with several non-profit organizations. With the help of several friends, Bob founded the Pikes Peak Jazz and Swing Society. He was elected to two terms as president, and edited their newsletter as well as that of the Black Forest Soaring Society. Concurrently he was board member of the Pikes Peak Arts Council, ultimately serving as president of that organization. He also completed a lifelong desire to learn to fly, earning his private pilot designation in sailplanes. He spent many years as an on-air host of a weekly jazz program on the radio station, KRCC. Concurrently he and his wife, Von enjoyed many trips to jazz events in the U.S. and Europe, flying reunions and museums, art museums and just traveling at home and abroad. Bob is preceded in death by his parents, Ward H. and Myrtle I. Simon; former wife, Ruth Simon; and second wife, LaVonna Scott Alter. Survivors include daughters, Cynthia Elliott and Kimberly Simon; and son, John Simon.There will be a memorial party at a later dateInterment will be at Fairview Cemetery. Contributions in Robert's memory may be made to the Pikes Peak Jazz and Swing Society Education Fund.Funeral Home:The Springs Funeral Services3115 East Platte AvenueColorado Springs, , COUS 80909 Events Service Tuesday, July 1, 2014 12:00AM The Springs Funeral Services 3115 East Platte Avenue Colorado Springs, CO 80909 Phone: 719-207-8855