Walter J. Simcock

Waterville-Walter J. Simcock, 88, of Waterville died on Tuesday January 28th after a short illness. Born on June 24, 1925 to humble beginnings, Walter and his sister, Dorothy (deceased) were raised in the West End of Boston by their mother Mae Connors Simcock. He attended the Working Boys Home in Newton, Massachusetts. Overcoming many obstacles, Walter went on to excel in competitive sports and serve as president of his Watertown High School class. He served in the United States Navy in the Philippines during World War II and graduated from Springfield College (Massachusetts). Walter and his wife Mary Therese Gardner chose Waterville to settle and raise their family. A consummate businessman, Walter took particular pride and enjoyment in his relationships with the employees and customers of Colonial Distributors, the beer and wine distribution business that he owned and operated for 42 years.

The essence of Walter Simcock was the genuine friendships he shared with the people of the greater Waterville community. A person of great empathy and compassion, Walter was a friend to all and a champion to every person who crossed his path. Freely giving of himself, he touched many lives by mentoring young people in their personal development and encouraging small business owners and entrepreneurs in their development.

Throughout his life, Walter was most generous with his time and money to philanthropic causes. In recent years, he took great pleasure in building playgrounds for local children. Those who knew Walter will remember him for his unfailing optimism and mischievous sense of humor.

Walter was predeceased by his beloved wife, his daughter Mary Francis Lynch, and his grandson Michael Lynch. He leaves behind his daughter Cheryl Zimmer and husband Steven; his daughter Walda Fitton and husband Steven; his son Stephen Edward; son-in-law James Lynch; and grandchildren, Jonathan and wife Gabrielle, Kathryn and Michelle Zimmer; Stephanie Cutter and husband Jason, and Jason Fitton; Matthew and Jose Lynch; and great-grandchildren Maeve and Theo Cutter.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mount Merici Academy, 152 Western Avenue, Waterville and the Waterville Boys & Girls Club & YMCA, 126 North Street, Waterville.

Visitations will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2014 from 5-8 PM and on Friday, January 31, from 2-4 and 6-8 PM at Veilleux Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated at 11 AM at Sacred Heart Church on Saturday, February 1, 2014. Services are under the care and direction of Veilleux Funeral Home 8 Elm St. Waterville ,ME 04901 www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com 207-872-7676