Ronald Daniel Simone

June 6, 1935 - October 9, 2019

Ronnie is survived by his wife Madeline, four children; Veronica, Stephen, Karen and Suzanne; five grandchildren Stephen Jr, Bradley, Michael, Matthew and Katie; further survived by niece and nephew, Charles and Diane, as well as extended family and many friends.

Son of George and Florence Simone, Ronnie was born in New Haven, CT. George, was a principle bass player in the New Haven Symphony.

Ronnie's extraordinary musical career began at age 5 when he played the "Boogie Woogie" on the radio. At age 13, the prodigy played in local New Haven orchestras, venues and clubs. At Yale University, Ronnie achieved a BA and a Masters in the school of Music.

He played at various prestigious summer resorts, on international cruise ships, and traveled with numerous acts such as Sammy Kaye and his orchestra.

In 1963, Ronnie moved to Las Vegas where he played at the Desert Inn Monte Carlo restaurant with violin player and long-time friend from New York, Joe Macchiaverna. Ronnie went on to play such broadway shows in Las Vegas as Gypsy, Bye-Bye Birdie, Guys and Dolls and Hello Dolly.

For over three decades with the Johnny Haig Relief Orchestra, Ronnie played production shows at marque hotels along the Las Vegas Strip while his greatest contribution possibly being the composing of the famous Can-Can which ran for 42 years in the Follies Bergere at the Tropicana Hotel.

Ronnie also played with such stars as the Dean Martin, Liberace, Elvis Presley, Eddie Gorme', Steve Lawrence, Barbara Streisand, and more. He also played comedians such as Mickey Rooney, Shecky Green, Buddy Hackett and Sid Caesar.

He appeared in such motion pictures as Casino, Godfather 2, the Mexican and Portrait of a Showgirl.

A true virtuoso, Ronnie played classical and contemporary concerts and was a proud member of Walt Boenig's Big band.

In his later years and as always, Ronnie enjoyed playing with his friends and for family.

Ronnie's music was transcendent. He brought music to life and had the ability to evoke emotion from all those who saw him. He could play any genre from any decade in any style in any key and tie it all together in a masterful way only he could do.

Ronnie's passion extended beyond music to his family and extended family of friends. Through wit and humor, Ronnie conveyed stories beyond the songs from the piano in a charming and unique way. He communicated through music in ways beyond words.

His legacy will live through his music, and will continue to touch all who listen for years to come.

Funeral services take place Friday, October 18th, 11:00 am, at The Lakes Lutheran Church - 8200 W. Sahara Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89117, (Intersection of Sahara Ave.& Cimarron) 702/363-2515 Note; there is no wake.

Burial immediately following at the Palm Downtown Mortuary, 1325 N Main Street, Las Vegas, NV 89101. 702-464-8300.