Donald J. "Grumpy" Simard, of Malden, formerly of Somerville, passed away on Monday, March 14th. He was 75. Born in Waterville, Maine and moved to Somerville MA, as a young child, where he spent the majority of his life. He married his high school sweetheart, Carol Burton Sholes and they shared two children together. Although their paths went in separate directions they maintained a close relationship and always celebrated holidays and milestones together as a family.
In Donald’s younger years he worked for Medford Glass until they closed their doors. He enjoyed boating and being on the water and had a few boats all of which he fondly named Kelly Ann. A few years down the road he would find himself on his daughter and son in laws boat for their annual Father’s Day lunch cruise in Gloucester. His love for cars and his mechanical skills brought him to Libby’s Auto Repair in Medford, from which he retired in 2016.
Donald was an avid car enthusiast and was the proud owner of a 1966 Pontiac Catalina. He was a member of the Pontiac Car Club, Yankee Division and participated in many car shows. Some of his favorites being in Hyannis and Old Orchard Beach. It was always a weekend he would bring his granddaughters on. He also enjoyed trips to the west coast to spend time with his son David and his family. He was a lifetime member of the Elks in Woburn and the Malden Moose Club. His later years found him love with his wife Jean. She took care of him and was a big support, especially after a life changing accident that almost took his life in 2017. He loved his family and spending time with them. He was everyone’s friend. Although a little “Grumpy” at times he would do anything for anyone. He is very much loved and he will be greatly missed but never forgotten.
Donald was the beloved husband of Jean (Clark) Simard. He was a devoted father of David Simard and his wife Laurie of San Diego, CA and Kelly Ciluffo and her husband Joseph of Billerica. He is the loving grandpa of David, Taylor, Jenna, Nicholas, Isabella and Megan. He was a caring step father of Jeannine Childress and her husband Michael, Daniel and Paul Murdock. He was the dear brother of Nancy Poirier of Winslow, Maine. Donald was predeceased by many brothers and sisters.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to visit with the family on Saturday, March 26th from 2 to 4 PM followed by a funeral service celebrated in the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., Medford at 4 PM. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Donald’s name to the Kaplan Family Hospice House, 78 Liberty Street, Danvers, MA 01923.