Gilbert Simonetti Jr.

Gilbert Simonetti Jr. died peacefully at home on November 18, 2022, surrounded by his children and grandchildren shortly after celebrating his 88th birthday. While he was well known as Gil, he was famously and lovingly known as Poppi. He was a wonderful father, grandfather, and great grandfather, and he will be missed by his family and many friends.

Gil was born in Brooklyn, NY on October 19, 1934. He received his undergraduate degree from City College of New York and a Masters degree from New York University.

Gil began his professional career in 1956 with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants in New York. His principal focus was on tax legislation. He was also the founder and executive editor of the Tax Adviser from its inception in 1970. In 1972 he relocated to the Washington DC area and opened the AICPA office to continue its legislative efforts. In July 1976 Gil was a direct admit to the Price Waterhouse partnership and opened the Firm’s Office of Washington Liaison where he continued his career until his retirement in July 1997. There were many notable moments during his time in Washington but one of his more significant accomplishments was leading the Firm’s, and other Big 8 firms at the time, efforts to enact tort reform resulting in the ability of the large professional services firms to form the existing LLP form of business. His partners remarked at his professionalism and practical advice when facing questions regarding legislative oversight and inquiries.

During his career and into retirement Gil was very active with the National Italian American Foundation, serving on its Board of Directors for many years. He was also an active member of the Georgetown Club, also serving on its Board.

Above all else, Gil was devoted to his family and friends. His beloved wife of 50 years Phyllis predeceased Gil in 2006. He loved his family and throughout his life taught them the value of honor and integrity. A voracious reader, his friends will recall fondly the many conversations on a wide range of topics, but politics, the financial markets, food, and travel were always favorites. His friends recall his kindness and keen interest in their lives. He listened well and provided sage advice when appropriate. When laughing his eyes would light up and his brows would heighten as he smiled, laughed, and showed us his love. He was a dapper man and gentleman. Business casual to him was a sport coat and tie and ever-present pocket square. He loved spending time at the beach and whether with his children or grandchildren he would always take time to fly kites, kayak and take long walks on the beach. Although we will miss him, we will always know that everything is fine - “tutto bene”.

Gil is survived by his three children, Gilbert III (Alison), Jean (Jon) and Janet (Jon) as well as his grandchildren, Daniel (Blakeley), Michael (Julia), Sarah, Andrew, Nicholas, Gilbert IV, Katherine and Madeline and his great granddaughter Reed. He is also survived by his brother Frank and his niece Jennifer (Peter) and their children, Joseph, and Anthony.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held Tuesday, November 29, 2022, at 11:00 am at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church, 6900 River Road, Bethesda, MD 20817. An internment will occur Wednesday, November 30, 2022, at 10:00 am at Saint Gabriel Cemetery, 10706 Alloway Drive, Potomac MD 20854.