Henrietta Simon

Simon, Henrietta Helen (Grandmother, Hank, Tootie & Hachimachisan) of Orlando, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, November 23. She was born in Hamburg, New York on March 11, 1926. Hank married the love of her life and husband of 62 years, Bob Simon, on May 25, 1946, and traveled the world by his side as a devoted Air Force wife. During their 28-year military partnership, Hank became an accomplished Bridge player whose scores equaled the Japanese men's Bridge team levels. But, understanding their culture, Hank graciously accepted placement on the women's team representing Japan in the World Bridge Olympics in Hong Kong alongside male partners Mr. Honda, Mr. Mitsubishi, and Sagi Komor who titled their American teammate, "Hachimachisan." Hank never lost her love of that game and, with the generosity of her son, hosted scores of Bridge parties for lifelong Officers Wives Club "Bridge Cronies."


Hank was known by many nicknames. Ask any of the hundreds of people she adopted into the family, including the entire 1969 graduating class of the Sanford Naval Academy and members of Boone High School classes 1970-72 who called her "Mom" or countless children from all cultures and walks of life in Kissimmee/St. Cloud, FL, who frequented the Power Play Video Arcade who knew her as, "Grandmother" because Hank made the world a better place by helping those in need or trouble.


Hank was an incredible mother whose external beauty was only surpassed by her kindness and loving nature. She was a living the example of compassion for others. When kids ran away from home they sought "Grandmother" to help them fix their problems with a treat, an "it's OK" band-aid," or a phone call to their parents letting them know their children were alright and wanted to come home.


Hank was unbelievably humorous and had quick wit that kept everyone in stitches. She was deeply admired by countless friends around the globe including the 6023rd REVRON a and was dearly loved as Aunt Tootie and Hankie by generations on both sides of her extended families.


Hank is survived by her husband, Lt Col (USAF, retired) Robert Earl Simon; daughter, LTC (US Army retired) Janice Simon Waters; sons Jay Simon and Alan Moore; sisters Adeline Borst and Emma Kane; and grandson Robert Mason Simon, who prompted Hank to create her own special farewell that will live on forever, "Angels all over you."


Visitation will be held from 12pm-2pm Saturday, November 29, 2008 at Newcomer Funeral Home, Orlando. Funeral services will begin at 2pm in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society 1601 W Colonial Dr. Orlando, FL 32804.