Thomas J. Simon

Tom Simon, of Allison Park, died suddenly on Saturday May 31, 2025. He led a full life but unfortunately could not stick around long enough to see his beloved Cleveland Indians/Guardians make one last push for an elusive World Series championship. He was born and raised in Erie, graduating from East High in 1965 and then Penn State University four years later. He completed a master’s degree in social psychology through Case Western Reserve University, and then promptly moved his young family to rural Maine in the early 70’s. There he began raising his two sons, with his then wife Kay, on a small farm while helping to run the state’s child welfare system. The 1980’s and 1990’s brought about changes in scenery as Tom and his family moved first to North Carolina and then to Pittsburgh. He spent most of his later professional life self employed as a management consultant. His retirement years were enriched by a string of part time jobs to include Lowe’s, Plantscape and several different school bussing companies. He may still have been driving a school bus (he so enjoyed the kids and their families) had recent health concerns not forced him to step aside.

Tom was born in 1947 to John and Betty Simon at the height of the post World War 2 baby boom. He was preceded in death by his younger sister, Lorren Thurston, and both of their parents. Tom leaves behind two loving sons, Nate (Ashlee) and Matt (Michelle), both lucky enough to live near their dad for most of their adult lives. Family celebrations, trips to Cleveland to watch early season ball games in the snow, home repairs and wood working projects, breakfasts at Kelly-O’s, events at Orchard Hill Church, Penn State football and lots of sideline rooting during Hampton and North Hills lacrosse and soccer seasons dotted the landscape of Tom’s years.

Tom’s legacy will live on through the lives of his four grandchildren: grandson Kelley Simon (living and working in Philadelphia) and granddaughters Mallory Simon (halfway through her master’s degree at Pitt), Chelsea Simon (soon to be of Ohio University) and Jordan Simon who can usually be found on a soccer field somewhere in the tri-state area. Being kept abreast concerning the lives of his grandchildren was Tom’s passionate preoccupation during times with his family.

The story of Tom’s life would not be complete without mention of his loving partner for the last 15 years, Karen Geisler. Karen was his companion, his caretaker and his support system through the ups and downs of growing older. Karen’s attention to his medication list and diet is best described as part drill sergeant, part Florence Nightingale. There is no doubt that Karen’s compassion, kindness and caring not only enhanced the last parts of Tom’s life, but prolonged them as well.

Friends and family will be received at Bock Funeral Home on Wednesday June 4, 2025 from 2:00 to 5:00 PM. Family will celebrate Tom’s life privately at a later service.