John P. Simon

John P. Simon, age 64, of Canal Fulton, Ohio, died Saturday, February 28, 2009, at Aultman Hospital in Canton, Ohio, following a long, courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family. He was born February 18, 1945, in Massillon, Ohio, living his entire life in the area. John graduated from Washington High School and was a National Guard veteran. He retired from Republic Steel, Enduro Division in Massillon, Ohio, after 35 years of service. He then was employed by Stark County Engineers until October, 2008. John was a member of Saints Philip and James Catholic Church in Canal Fulton, Ohio. John enjoyed gardening, canning his hot peppers, hunting, farming and spending time in the outdoors with his five grandsons. In addition to his parents, Paul and Annabelle Simon, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jerry Simon. He is survived by his wife, Claudia Lee (Schneider) to whom he was married September 10, 1966, and loved for 42 years; one brother and sister-in-law, Tim and Eileen Simon of Lisbon, Ohio,; one sister and brother-in-law, Joan Marie and Tom Scharver of Canton, Ohio; one son and daughter-in-law, Brian and Marita Simon of North Lawrence, Ohio; one daughter and son-in-law, Barbara and Frank Swogger, Jr. of Lawrence Township, Ohio; five grandsons; Garrett, Austin, and Jacob Simon; Luke and Aaron Swogger; nieces, nephews and many dear friends. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, March 5, 2009, at 10:00 a.m. in Saints Philip and James Church in Canal Fulton, Ohio, with Father John Warner celebrant. Calling hours will be Wednesday, March 4, 2009, from 6-9 p.m. at Paquelet Funeral Home 1100 Wales Rd. NE in Massillon, Ohio. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. James Schmotzer for his compassion and exceptional care during John’s illness. We would also like to thank Dr. Schmotzer and Dr. Vemulpalli’s staff for their assistance and kindness. In addition, a thank you to the Aultman Hospital staff in Infusion, Radiation, 6th Floor Oncology, Palliative Care and especially Dr. Grossman and dog, Cody. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Palliative Care Unit of Aultman Hospital, 2600 Sixth Street, S.W. Canton, Ohio, 44710; or Make A Wish Foundation of Ohio (Cleveland), 1422 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio, 44115. Messages of comfort and support may be made to sent to www.paquelet.com. Paquelet/Massillon A Golden Rule Funeral Home 330-833-3222