Csm John M. Simon

CSM John Maurice Simon, age 80, of Geneseo, IL passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2015 at his home. Sergeant Major Simon was born January 17, 1935 in Basile, Louisiana to the late Emmerick and Priscilla Bellard Simon. John spent his career in the United States Army as a Command Sergeant Major, serving 30 years. He enlisted in the US Army in 1953 and served for a period of three years prior to being discharged in 1956. Sergeant Major Simon reenlisted in the US Army in July 1959 and has served in a variety of assignments in automotive maintenance positions throughout his military career. From 1959 through 1981 he has served six overseas tours, including two combat tours in Vietnam, where he participated in five campaigns. Appointed a First Sergeant in 1977, he served with distinction at Fort Bliss, Texas and in Germany with the 546th Maintenance Company and Headquarters Company, 2d Support Command. Upon returning to CONUS in 1981, he was selected to serve as the Depot Senior Sergeant, Anniston Army Depot and was assigned to his current duties as Command Sergeant Major on 10 January 1983. During his illustrious career, Sergeant Major Simon has been honored for meritorious service in positions of high trust and responsibility. His many awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal (Second Oak Leaf Cluster), Meritorious Service Medal and the Army Commendation Medal (Second Oak Leaf Cluster).After retirement from the military; John worked at the Rock Island Arsenal in civil service. He belonged to the VFW Rock Island Post #1303 and the Masonic Lodge. He enjoyed building things for his family and traveling. John was an avid gardener.

Survivors Include his wife: Peggy of Geneseo, IL; Son: John Simon, Jr.; Daughters: Antoinette, Annette, JaKierra and husband Travis Lee, JaQuoixia and husband Christopher Paulk Melinda, and Mellisa, 14 grandchildren; sisters: Susanne Higgins and Linda Brooks, many nieces and nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Immediate family will have a private gathering prior to graveside service.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 8, 2015 at 2:00 PM at the Leach Cemetery in Lake City, Tennessee.