Stanley 'Stan' James Simon, 68, of Plainville, Kansas, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2024, Jesus’ earthly birthday, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was surrounded by the care and comfort of his family at Rooks County Health Center.
Stan was born on November 10, 1956, in Plainville to James W. and Lola M. (Nickles) Simon. He grew up in the close-knit community of Zurich and graduated from Palco High School in 1974. He went on to study at Manhattan Technical College, paving the way for a long and dedicated career as a natural gas serviceman starting with KN Energy and then Midwest Energy.
On September 23, 1978, Stan married the love of his life, Maria Karns, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plainville, where he remained a devoted member. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with love and faith, raising three sons: Phil, Mark, and Andy.
Stan embraced life with enthusiasm and filled his days with hobbies and activities that brought him and those around him immense joy. A passionate outdoorsman, he found peace and adventure in hunting, fishing, and camping—cherishing annual fishing trips to South Dakota with his boys. He was also a talented craftsman, enjoying woodworking, taxidermy, and gardening. Whether he was caring for wildlife, sharing laughter at a blackjack table, or savoring his favorite honey bun, Stan’s zest for life was contagious.
Stan shared a special bond with his beloved hunting dogs, who were more than companions; they were trusted partners and cherished members of the family. Louie, Jodi 1 and 2, Schyler, Dixie, Sammi, Maggie, and Sammy brought him endless joy and enriched his life through countless adventures in the fields and woods. Their loyalty and companionship were a constant source of happiness for Stan.
Above all, Stan was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who left a legacy of love and strength. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him but will live on through the memories and values he instilled in his family and friends.
Stan is survived by his beloved wife, Maria, of the home in Plainville; his sons, Phil Simon of Lenexa, Kansas, Mark Simon of Great Bend, Kansas, and Andy Simon of Manhattan, Kansas; his sister, Jolene (Rod) McElroy of Wheelersburg, Ohio; his cherished grandchildren, Sage, Alexis, and Carter Simon; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Lola Simon, and his brother, Mike Simon.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, December 30, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Plainville. Visitation will take place on Sunday, December 29, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home in Plainville, followed by a Vigil and Rosary at 6:00 PM.
Memorial contributions may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church or Friends of Webster and sent to Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 320 SW 2nd Street, Plainville, KS 67663.
Messages of condolence for Stan’s family may be shared online at www.plumeroverlease.com