Kenneth "Ken" David Simone, Sr.

Kenneth "Ken" David Simone, Sr. was born on February 22, 1944, to Arthur and Elvera Simone, in Cicero, Illinois. He passed away on September 26, 2022, in Richardson, Texas.

Ken graduated from J. Sterling Morton High School in 1962. He attended the Illinois Institute of Technology and graduated with a degree in electrical engineering in 1966. He later attended Southern Methodist University earning a master's in Electrical Engineering.

Ken enjoyed a career in electrical engineering at Western Electric, AT&T, and Lucent Technologies.  After retirement, he started a second career at Weathermatic, bringing his expertise in engineering and automation and his love of all things weather to the sprinkler system industry.

Ken married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Marie Klaczynski, on January 29, 1966.  Ken and Nancy celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary this year.  Two children were loved and nurtured in this union, Ken Simone, Jr. and Julie Fergerson.

Ken had a passion for electronics and pyrotechnics, and it was not unusual to see jars of chemicals, piles of electrical components, and computers set up for activities with his grandchildren.  Be it charging lightbulbs through the air, making everyone's hair stand up while coursing electricity through our bodies, or creating small explosions, Ken had a passion for sharing Science, Engineering, Technology, and Math with all those who would participate and learn. 

In addition to Ken’s passion for all things electrical, he enjoyed music, especially his player piano and many other musical instruments brought out every holiday.  He was active in his retirement, flying RC Airplanes and hanging out at the RC airstrip - and some unofficial airstrips he and his good friends flew at much to the annoyance of some local neighbors.  Ken created the Photography Club at the senior center and ran photo contests for many years. This was one of the most popular events at the senior center, 

Ken also enjoyed traveling. He and Nancy enjoyed many great adventures in national parks, trips to Mexico, and visiting family across the US.  Ken loved games and truly enjoyed Poker with his buddies.  Ken loved the water, and he enjoyed sailing and motorboats.  Ken also played tennis for many years and switched to pickleball in later years.

Ken will be fondly remembered for his ability to bring a little extra fun into just about everything in life.  His loving spirit will be missed by all who were privileged to cross his path.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Elvera Simone; and siblings, Arthur Jr. and Theodore. Those left to cherish lasting memories include his wife of 56 years, Nancy Marie Simone; children, Ken Simone, Jr. (Tracy) and Julie Fergerson; grandchildren - Everett, Charlotte, Jake, and Marie; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

Ken wrote a life stories book last year; the book is full of treasured stories and pictures from his life.  The book is viewable online and can also be downloaded: https://tinyurl.com/4db66fap.

In lieu of flowers, all are encouraged to donate to Gates Philanthropy Partners and/or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Ken Simone's honor.

The Gates Foundation has been doing amazing work across planet earth to fight hunger, diseases and so much more using science and technology.  Because Ken was so passionate about leveraging science and technology, we are asking donations be made to the Gates Philanthropy Partners. Simply click the link below. 

Ken and Nancy also always discussed the commercials from St. Jude, so if you wish, a donation to St. Jude would also be appreciated. Simply click the link below. 

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