Jack was born in Newark, New Jersey, the youngest of three children, to Charles and Ida Simon. Throughout his life, Jack was meticulously dressed, looking years younger than he was. He studied History at Williams College, before joining his brother and father in their family business.
He connected with the love of his life, Marilyn, when he was twenty-two years old, and called to ask out her older sister, on April Fool’s Day. As her sister was already betrothed, he was directed by his future mother-in-law to speak with Marilyn, and they agreed to go on a date when she returned home from school. A short nine months later, they married on January 29, 1950, and he spent every day of the rest of his life by her side. Their love, which lasted 72 years, inspired their children and their grandchildren. They loved art and music—on many evenings, you could find Jack and Marilyn dancing together, whether on the dance floor, or simply in their living room.
Jack was a devoted father to his two daughters, Barbara and Carol. He loved taking them to art galleries, and as they grew up, introducing them to his love of wine. Jack was hard to miss—he drove a bright green Cadillac, loved fashion, and frequently—much to his daughters’ embarrassment—caught the attention of both their teachers and friends.
Nothing brought more joy to Jack than his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved watching them grow and play, and was often moved to tears as he watched his grandchildren become loving parents.
Aside from his family, Jack delighted in reading historical fiction and playing golf and bridge. He was a font of knowledge, the one everyone turned to when they needed answers. He served as the Editor for The Villager, a publication for the local men’s club, and taught adult educational courses on wine in both New Jersey and Florida.
Jack will be remembered as a good, kind, loving man, who lived an incredibly full life. May he forever rest in peace.
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