Roger W. Simonis
Roger W. Simonis, 77, of Bradenton, FL, formerly of Ravenna, OH, passed away peacefully on 23 May 2024, at Tidewell Hospice in Bradenton, FL. He was born in Tiffin, OH, the son of William F. and Phyllis Rose (Hussey) Simonis. He is survived by his loyal partner of 27 years, Karla Ladyn, and his daughters, Natalie (Lee Marc) and Bernadette (Bryant), and by his brother, Michael (Ginny) Simonis.
Roger served his country as a radio operator during Vietnam on the USS John R. Craig; served as Watch Commander for the VFW Ravenna Post 1055. Roger was a beer distributor representing The Miller Brewing Company; and owned his own tap cleaning business. Roger was a gregarious soul who enjoyed living life to the fullest, he enjoyed flying airplanes, and assisting his dear friend, Tom Fijalkovich, gave helicopter rides, collecting beer memorabilia, and had a long-standing passion for Corvettes, having grown up in the car business through his Father’s Chevrolet dealership in Sycamore, OH. He and Karla enjoyed travelling; some favorite excursions were on Route 66, golf cart outings at Disney World, a trip to Cuba, and frequent trips to Ohio to visit family and friends.
The family is especially thankful for Roger’s dear friends Ron Ames and Dan Lock for their continued support over the years and especially during these last difficult weeks and months.
In keeping with his wishes, there will be no public service; but memorial contributions may be made to the VFW, Ravenna Post 1055 6000 New Milford Rd, Ravenna, OH 44266 or join Facebook to make donations (https://www.vfw.org) or the Tidewell Hospice, 2504 34th Ave. W. Bradenton FL 34205 (www.tidewellfoundation.org/donate); friends should feel free to remember him by hoisting a Miller Lite in a can and regaling a wild tale or two.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory 43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements.
