"Si" (Deforest) Simons

Age 91, passed away peacefully at the Bradford County Manor in Burlington PA on Wednesday, December 18, 2019. Si was born in Nelson Township PA, a son of DeForest W. and Iva Thomas Simons. He was predeceased by infant daughter Anne Marie Simons; brothers, Earl, Basil and Robert Simons; sister Delia Hart. Si is survived by his loving wife of 69 years Roberta VanGorden Simons; son and daughter-in-law Michael and Audie Simons of Millerton PA; son Richard Simons of Hector NY with Patty Sandore; daughter-in-law Karen Simons of Elmira; grandchildren, Sam Somostrada, Alex (Ann) Conrad, Nick Simons, Christopher (Jessica) Simons, Adam (Tessa) Simons and Gregory (Santina) Simons; great grandchildren, Lucy and Benjamin Simons, Max and Dean Simons; sister Joyce Heffner of Tioga PA; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Alberta and Miguel Quintana of San Diego CA; several nieces and nephews. Si enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps in 1945. He was a member of the Elmira Heights American Legion for over 60 years. Si was a service manager at several area auto dealerships. In his earlier years he enjoyed bowling and playing softball. He was an avid golfer and still walked the golf course into his 80's. Si was a father who forever showed unconditional love for his sons; a grandfather whose love was unlimited for his grandsons (when they were with him 100% of his attention was on every word they said, every action they took, and every emotion they experienced); and a husband who doted on his wife with constant presence, attention, and love in their years of declining health. He was a kind man who loved spending time with his golfing and coffee buddies. His bright smile and witty humor made everyone who met him have a better day. The only time he ever spoke the word "hate" was when referring to pizza! Si will be missed by all, but his legacy of good humor and kindness will live on for years in his grandsons and their families. Private family burial will take place at Millerton Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service at Millerton United Methodist Church, 5443 Main St., Millerton PA, 16936, on Saturday, December 28, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. The Simons family would like to thank the staff at Bradford County Manor for their kindness and compassionate care provided to Si. Those wishing may remember Si with a donation to Millerton United Methodist Church or the Alzheimer's Association, 425 Pennsylvania Ave., Elmira NY 14904.