Joseph George Simon

Joseph G. (Mike) Simon 1921 - 2020 Toms River, NJ formally of Queens, NY, died June 23, 2020 in Toms River, NJ. Joe was the son of the late Mickle and Julia (née Todd) Simon, and was the younger brother of the late Charles and sister Helen (White) Simon. Joe was a graduate of the St. James School, who went on to attend La Salle Academy, and is an honorary (and proud) graduate of Power Memorial Academy.

After his schooling, Joe went on to serve in the Civilian Conservation Corps in the late 1930’s. He is a distinguished disabled veteran of World War II, having arrived on Omaha Beach, and also having served in England, Normandy, Ireland, Belgium, France, Germany, and Holland. Joe was assigned to the 405th AAA Battery and other units attached to the Antwerp X offensive including the Battle of the Bulge. His service was notable by his unit’s mentioned in two separate Belgian Army Orders’ of the Day and was further awarded the Belgian Croix de Guerre ribbon and the Fourragère 1940 as well as a commendation by the government of Antwerp and the Diplôme d’ Honneur de la Médaille du Cinguantenaire by the French government. Joe was a proud member of the Disabled American Veterans, the Blinded American Veteran’s Association, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6063.

Following his military service, Joe pursued a trade career and retired in 1984 after 38 years in the plumbing and heating industry. A spiritual man, he was a member of the Holy Name Society of St. Maximilian Kolbe Church of Toms River, NJ. Joe was also an avid reader and courageously adapted his loss of sight to allow him to continue his hobby. He was a man with a great sense of humor, a love of life and a loyal friend and family member.

Joe was fortunate to share his life with the former Justyne (Jay) Torp, whom he married in 1951, until her death in February 1996. He is also predeceased by his son Richard Joseph and daughter Jayne Marie. Joe is survived by his sons and their families, Michael and Cristina of Houston, TX, and Thomas of Massapequa, NY, and his grandchildren Joseph and Dana.

Because of COVID-19, funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The National WWII Museum, New Orleans, LA, or The American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial, Washington, DC.