Douglas Brian Simon, 58

Douglas Brian Simon, age 58, of Veseli, died peacefully at home with his family at his side on Saturday, June 29, 2024.  Doug was born on August 7, 1965, in New Prague to Milton C. and Janet M. (Turek) Simon.  He attended LNMV Catholic School, graduated from New Prague High School, and went on to attend the Hennepin Tech Journeyman Program.  He worked in painting and wall covering for Wasche Commercial Finishes, Inc. and Kraus-Anderson.  Doug served in the Army Reserves from 1983-1984.  He married Nancy VonBank and the couple were blessed with three children.  Tragedy struck in their young lives with the death of their daughter, Candace, just 3 days shy of her 6^th birthday. Nancy followed in death just a few years later.  Doug remained an inspiration to his family throughout all this tragedy.  His will to live and endure were legendary and he was determined to live his best life, exhibiting an amazing strength. 

 Doug loved playing baseball, softball, billiards, hunting and fishing, bowling, archery, and bingo.  He enjoyed cars and attending car shows.  Life in a wheelchair did not prevent him from pursuing some of these interests.  He became involved with the Paralyzed Veterans Association and National Disabled Veterans Games, participating in and gold-medaling in several of the games.  His greatest joy came in the times spent with his sons, granddaughter, family and friends.  He enjoyed special outings, traveling, and vacations with them. Community was also important.  The Veseli and surrounding local communities were there for him at the time of hardship for Nancy, Doug, Candace, Brian, and Eric.  That support never ebbed throughout the remainder of Doug's life.  These communities continued their support and Doug remained an inspiration.  He could be seen spinning around on his wheelchair or cruising the streets of Veseli and playing dice at gatherings.  When he got the recent diagnosis that nothing more could be done and death was imminent, Doug wanted a "celebration of life" party!  It was held 2 days later, complete with fireworks and a "pig roast" in the form of pulled pork!  His strength, his love of life, his perseverance and determination has left a lasting legacy for his family and all who knew him!

Doug is survived by his sons, Brian Simon (special friend, Rachel Johnson) of Veseli and Eric Simon (Nina Brindamour) of Veseli; granddaughter, Addilyn Simon; mother, Janet Simon of New Prague; siblings, Dan Simon of Veseli, Karen (Randy) Indgjer of Mechanicsville, MD, Diane (Randy) Pexa of Jacobson, Doris (Jon) Gillen of New Prague.  He is preceded in death by wife, Nancy Simon; daughter, Candace; grandson, Jase Simon; father, Milton; brother, Kevin.

 Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at 10:00 M at a.m. Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Veseli with Father John Lapensky and Father Michael Miller officiating.  Visitation will take place Monday from 4 - 8 a.m. at Bruzek Funeral Home.  There will be NO morning visitation.  Burial will occur at St. John's Cemetery where military honors will be conducted by the Lonsdale Veterans Honor Guard.  Lunch will follow the burial at the Lonsdale Legion Club.  

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