Marjorie Simon

Born in Chicago, Illinois, June 4, 1931, Marjorie was the daughter of Robert & Gail Zagel Himmel. Her mother owned the renowned Gail Shop, a custom dress shop in the Marshall Field’s Annex. Marjorie attended the University of Wisconsin where she met her husband, Gerald Simon. They married in 1951 and moved to Los Angeles in 1960, where they raised their two children, Alan Simon and Jill Simon Friedman.

Marjorie was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was very proud of her children and helped encourage them to achieve success in their chosen careers.

Marjorie had a great love of all animals. There wasn’t a stray cat, dog, raccoon, or possum that didn’t get fed if it crossed her path. Her greatest passion was her devotion to her Brussels Griffon dogs. In 1961 she obtained her first Griffon, Dusty. She began showing, obedience training, breeding, and doing everything she could to enhance the breed. Dusty soon became AM & MEX CH Barmare’s Stardust CD, CDX, UD, PC, the first female Griffon to earn the coveted UD obedience title and the foundation of Stardust Griffons. Everyone who was fortunate enough to obtain a Griffon from Marjorie became a friend for life.

In 1972 Marjorie was one of the founding members and the President of the National Brussels Griffon Club. She served as Vice President of the AKC parent club, American Brussels Griffon Association, for many years. She also edited the Brussels Griffon Primer, written by her dear friend Richard Ball.

In 1997 Marjorie jumped into action after a Brussels Griffon was featured in the major motion picture “As Good As It Gets.” The popularity of this movie caused a huge increase in the demand for Griffons, resulting in back yard breeders trying to cash in and a consequent glut of Griffons dumped in shelters.

Along with an incredible team, she formed National Brussels Griffon Rescue, Inc., a 501c3 charity. Because of her leadership and dedication to the breed, NBGR has rescued over 1,500 Griffons. She was extremely grateful to Connie Lawrence, Vicki O’Neill, and the amazing NBGR team for continuing the effort when she was unable to do so.

A talented artist, Marjorie enjoyed oil painting, copper enamel, ceramics, and jewelry making. Her favorite subject, of course, being her beloved Griffons. She also took on the challenge of managing the design and construction of her and Jerry’s home in Houston. She helped plan everything from the architecture to construction and decor.

Marjorie was a woman of tenacity, sharp wit, and passion for life. Friends regularly sought out her advice knowing that her wisdom, knowledge and insight would be right on target. If lucky, they also got a sampling of her wicked sense of humor. If Marjorie was in the room there was always love and a lot of laughing. Everyone that met Marjorie was enriched. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Marjorie is predeceased in death by her parents, Robert Himmel Sr. and Gail Zagel Wolfson; husband, Gerald “Jerry” Simon; and her brother, Robert Himmel Jr. Marjorie is survived by her son Alan (Alma) Simon, Los Angeles; daughter Jill (Mark) Simon Friedman, Houston; grandchildren Alison (Danny) Blunt, Adam Simon, and Alex Simon; great-grandson Donavan Blunt; her devoted cat Norman Newman, feral cats Squeaky and Tommy, Myrtle the Turtle, and the many raccoons, possums, and peacocks that stop by the house.

The family is greatly indebted to Natasha Gibson for the wonderful care she provided Marjorie in her last year. Tasha’s loving patience, creativity, humor, strength, energy, and passion helped Marjorie remain comfortable and well-fed in her home until the end. The family also greatly appreciates the loving care provided by Keisha Roberts, Pam Robertson, and Tia Russell. Marjorie would not have been able to stay in her home without their incredible teamwork.

Donations in Marjorie’s honor can be made to National Brussels Griffon Rescue (www.brusselsgriffonrescue.org).