Pauls Valley, Oklahoma — Fred F. (Duke) Simon Jr., 62, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, February 8, 2013. Born in Oklahoma City on January 3, 1951 to Fred Simon and Thelma Simon, Duke was the seventh person with a hearing disability to earn a Master’s degree in the state of Oklahoma.
Duke devoted his life to teaching children and adults with special needs at the Pauls Valley State School. After 32 years of teaching special education, Duke retired, moved to Oklahoma City and spent five years teaching in Edmond Public Schools.
After retiring from teaching, he enjoyed spending his days outside. He spent some of his time working for a swimming pool company, and much of his time in his own front yard, making it one of the most immaculate in the neighborhood.
As an infant, Duke almost lost his life, and when he beat the odds, he acquired the name, the Iron Duke.
Among Duke’s favorite things was to spend time talking about “stuff” with his family and friends. One never had to guess what was on Duke’s mind because he wouldn’t hesitate to tell you. He was loved dearly by all who knew him and he will be greatly missed.
Duke was preceded in death by his parents Fred F. Simon Sr. and Thelma Simon, and by Ina Simon.
He is survived by his sister, Barbara Reininger and husband Jon of Oklahoma City; by aunts Virginia Johns of Ketchum, Genell Simon, Madeline Rahill, Charlene Rahill, Kathy Eckstein and husband Jim, Uncle Kay Simon, all of Oklahoma City; treasured niece and nephew, Sarah and Jack Reininger; many cousins; dear friend Luke Young; and his companion to the very end, Duke the Dog.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, February 14 at 10 a.m. at Christ The King Catholic Church, 8005 Dorset Drive.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Christ the King School Development Fund or the Flowers That Do Not Wither Fund at St. Elijah Orthodox Christian Church.
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