Bernard Simons

Bernard Wilson "Bernie" Simons, 80, of Morgantown, passed away Sunday, October 5, 2014 at Monongalia General Hospital of Morgantown, WV. Bernie was born in Morgantown on July 3, 1934, a son of the late Fred Stephen “Jack” Simons and the late Ethel Wilson Simons. Survivors include his wife, Dorothy Koval Simons; sons, Dr. Bernie Michael Simons and spouse Laura, Stephen James Simons, and John Edward Simons; granddaughters Allison Renee Simons, Nicolette Marie Simons and Laila Marie Simons; his brother Donald Simons; his sister Janice Wimer; several nieces and nephews, many good friends and his loving pets, Darcey and Danny Boy. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Dorothy Anderson; and brothers, James, Fred, and Joseph Simons. Bernie was a member of St. Mary Roman Catholic Church in Star City and also attended St. John’s University Parish. He graduated from Morgantown High School, attended West Virginia University and then Insurance School in New York City. He worked for the America Fore Loyalty Group in Pittsburgh, PA and joined his family insurance business, later becoming President of Simons Insurance Agency. Bernie was a professional boxing ring announcer for Simons Promotions boxing events. He served in the United State Army, two years active, two years inactive and two years as a reservist. He was a volunteer assistant coach for Morgantown High School and St. Francis High School Football, St. Francis High School Girls’ Basketball, Little League Baseball and Football, Babe Ruth Baseball. Bernie was past Grand Knight and 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, Past Exalted Ruler of Morgantown Elks Lodge 411, a member of the American Legion, past President of Oak Grove Cemetery Association, Past President of the Independent Insurance Agents, member of Beau Monde Dance Club and a volunteer at St. Ursula’s Food Pantry. He loved the lake, swimming in his pool, traveling, e-mailing jokes, taking trips in his motor home, boating, attending Shoney’s breakfast with Linda’s gang, as well as WVU and Notre Dame Sports. Family and friends will be received at Hastings Funeral Home, 153 Spruce St., Morgantown on Wednesday, October 8th from 2-4 and 7-9 PM. A Scriptural Wake Service will be held at 8:30 PM Wednesday in the funeral home to conclude the evening visitation. On Thursday, October 9th, Bernie will be moved to St. Mary Roman Catholic Church in Star City, where he will lay in repose from 10 AM until the celebration of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM with Father John Paul as celebrant. Interment will follow in East Oak Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Bernie’s memory may be made to St. Ursula's Food Pantry & Outreach, P.O. Box 18, Pursglove, WV 26546. The family would like to extend many thanks to the doctors and nurses at Monongalia General Hospital and Reliable Health Care. Send condolences online at www.hastingsfuneralhome.com.