Frank Donald Simons

   Frank Donald Simons passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 21, 2024, with his daughters by his side. He was 78 years old and had been a lifelong resident of the Kalamazoo area.

   Frank was born to Frank A. and Alice Simons in Midland, Michigan on April 3, 1946. He was the youngest of three boys. Frank graduated from Western Michigan with a degree in finance. Upon returning home from serving in Vietnam, Frank met the love of his life, Sherry K. Smit, and permanently stayed in the Kalamazoo area. They married on August 25th, 1973, and were married for forty-eight years. He went on to get his master’s degree as well. They lived in Portage before they moved out to Vicksburg, their family home for thirty-eight years.

 Frank was a “hands-on” dad and family man. As a family, there were many days spent cross-country skiing, ferocious games of marbles, and endless euchre games. He attended all of his girls' events. He was their little league coach. Frank continued the tradition by going to every volleyball match, softball game, basketball game, play, and musical of his three granddaughters that he could. He was very proud of his family. He had been asked if he had ever wanted boys. His response was why would he when he had two girls who could do everything boys could?

    Frank was a lifelong U of M football fan. He had been a season ticket holder for decades. He attended with Sherry, the girls, and friends. Once his youngest daughter Julie was married, Ryan, his son-in-law became his permanent game buddy. Frank and Sherry also enjoyed ski trips out west with her sister and brother-in-law. Frank had been an avid bowler and golfer, participating in several leagues. He took to making clubs for himself and his friends. Frank and Sherry often traveled to Tennessee on many golfing adventures, accompanied by their children or Sherry’s sister and brother-in-law (Bill and Linda Stannard). Once both retired, he and Sherry became snowbirds living in Tucson Arizona for several winters. Their daughters and their families visited each spring for hiking, sightseeing, visiting the zoo, and family time around the pool.  

  Frank worked and retired from the Upjohn Company as an international financial analyst. While he traveled the world for work, there was no better place than home for Frank. He preferred to be home with Sherry and the girls. He often came home early from fishing trips in Canada with his brother-in-law and friends because he just wanted to be home. He would say, “They Just weren't biting this year” as his reason for coming home early.

  Frank had other hobbies over the years. He enjoyed geocaching both locally and in Tucson. He also enjoyed playing cribbage with friends. It was common to see Frank reading a book outside while listening to his favorite 70s radio channel. He loved a good western and a good mystery. 

 Frank is survived by his daughters, Jody Jackon of Portage, MI, and Julie (Ryan) Willhauck, of Aurora Illinois. He is also survived by his precious granddaughters Kayla Danyelle, Alyssa Marie, and Pressly Jo whom he truly cherished. Also surviving are his beloved sister-in-law Linda Stannard, brother-in-law, Kevin Kuss, and many nieces and nephews. Frank was preceded in death by his loving wife, Sherry, his parents, and brothers John and Larry Simons.  In keeping with Frank’s wishes, there will be no funeral. He will be interned with full military honors in the spring. If so moved, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association or Veteran Affairs.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Frank guestbook and/or share a memory with his family. 

The Simons family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Ln, Portage, MI 49002 . 269-685-5881.