Cecil Lincoln Simon, age 90 of North Platte, passed away Wednesday, February 2, 2022 at his home surrounded by his three daughters and other family members who helped with his loving care.
Cecil was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He truly loved and cared about his family. And was loved by them, in return. He will truly be missed by his family and those who knew him well.
Cecil was born at home, February 12, 1931 in Scottsbluff, NE to Edward C. Simon and Grace May (Roberts) Simon. He grew up in the Scottsbluff area working with his father in the house moving business; Edward Simon and Sons. Their business was scattered across Nebraska, Wyoming and other states. He worked for his father until he joined the Army in 1949.
Cecil served in the military branch of the US Army from 1949 to 1952 during the Korean War. He was based in Baltimore, Maryland.
Private E-1
After returning home he met his lovely wife, Dorothy Jean (Leider) Simon, and they were married April 17, 1955. Cecil was asked by his older brother to join him in his construction company endeavors in 1957. Cecil accepted the offer and they moved to North Platte, NE with two of their daughters and one on the way. Cecil became one of the Vice-Executives of the James E. Simon Construction Co which expanded to several states. His favorite aspect of working for Simon's was running heavy equipment and teaching personnel how to do things right the first time. He was a hard worker and felt everyone should do the same. If you had a mechanical problem he was the guy to call. Cecil had an amazing talent of designing equipment and gadgets and making them work. He often spoke about the employees of the James E. Simon Construction Co and how much he appreciated their loyalty and hard work.
Of all of Cecil's talents, not only did he play a good game of golf, but he wrote poetry and was a great storyteller about his life experiences. It was always a joy to sit and listen to him talk about his younger days. There was always a learning lesson to follow each story. After he retired in 1995 he enjoyed golfing everyday and caring for his lake home. He also enjoyed meeting the gang at the coffee place where his usual friends showed up to talk about the latest things going on in North Platte or he told one of his stories. Cecil was very partial to his little brother, Eddie, who had Down Syndrome. They had a very special relationship. Cecil would take him wherever he went. They always went for coffee with the gang, maybe a quick stop at the Fort Cody Souvenir Shop or took Eddie to drive the golf cart. So many fond memories of these two together.
Cecil was preceded in death by his wife (Dorothy), both parents, his brothers; Jim, Kenneth and wife (Rita), Robert and wife (Inge), John "J.B", and Eddie. His oldest sister Esther and husband Ralph Johnston. Brother-in-law, Robert Lofing (Edna May) and Audrey Simon. Also, nephews: Stephen Simon, Greg Simon, Rick Simon and Howard (Howie) Simon.
Cecil is survived by his 3 daughters; Christine J. Simon, Vickie G. Hardenbergh (Vance) and Jennifer A. Smith (Kyle) all of North Platte, NE. Cecil had many grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom he loved very much. Christine's children: Rachel (Jeremy) Webb with Emma and Elijah of Ponchatoula, LA. John (Keontra) Griffiths with GiYada and GiYavonna of Danbury, Texas. Robbyn (Sam) Raffaeli of North Platte. Rebecca (Angelo) DeHerrera with Nevaeh, Diego of North Platte and Domonique with Annaliciya of Lafayette, CO. Vickie's children: David Hardenbergh with Andrew and Mitchell Stiver of Arizona, Vanessa (Jarod) Scheinost with Gavin, Bryson and Talyah Linstrom of North Platte, Grace Andrews with Nehemiah of North Platte and Kevin R. Hardenbergh of North Platte. Jennifer's children: Heather (Joel) Sinclair with Haley and Jace of Brady, NE. Krystal (Justin) Williams with little Mila of Omaha, NE. Lacey (Tanner) Seidel of Lincoln, NE and Kayla (Tayler) Smith of North Platte, NE. Also, Howard F. Simon (Billie Jean) and Edna May Lofing (sister). Sister-in-laws; Sandy (J.B.) Simon, Judy (James) Simon. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
I wish to express my deepest appreciation for all those who made it possible for my father to be home. Family, Friends, North Platte Nurses, Dr Weisen, Dr Jones, Great Plains Home Health Equipment, Great Plains Health, R and R Remodel, Davis Construction, and so many more. Many thanks to all of you. Christine Simon
Cecil did not wish to have a funeral service but rather wanted to be laid to rest next to his beloved wife, Dorothy, at Fort McPherson, NE in a private ceremony. Donations can be made to the North Platte Opportunity Center. Thank you.
Adam and Swanson Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.