Edward W. ‘Ed’ Simon

Edward W. (Ed) Simon, 65, died Nov. 2, 2021, at his home in Wakefield surrounded by family.

H e was born on Sept. 12, 1956, in Scott City, the son of Robert L. and Mary L. (Berning) Simon.

Ed was a lifetime resident of Marienthal until July of 2021 when he and Jana retired and moved to Wakefield.

Ed attended St. Mary Grade School, Wichita County High School graduating in 1974 and Dodge City Community College, attaining an Associate Degree.

He married Jana Mae Dierks on July 17, 1976, in Leoti. She survives.

He was a farmer and rancher, auctioneer, AHA first aid and CPR instructor, volunteer AEMT for Leoti EMS, substitute mail carrier, AEMT for Midwest Medical Transport, past USD 467 school board member and recently the director of building, grounds and transportation at USD 467.

He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus Council No. 2930, and Assembly No. 2567 Bishop John B. Franz 4th Degree of Marienthal.

He was of great help to the Wichita County community as his AEMT skills and concern for all people made him an excellent first responder.

He was the “Marienthal 1” responder and would state, “I am just along for the ride.” He was known as a friend and helper to all he met.

Many children will remember him as the mailman that left treats in the mailbox. Other kids will remember him for the popsicles he gave away on parade day.

Other survivors include Paul Simon and wife, Jacque, Scott City, Amber Stevens and husband, Chris, Emporia, and AJ Simon and wife, Kim, Wakefield; three sisters, Jean Wells, Marienthal, Diana Long and husband, Todd, Leoti, and Connie McRae and husband, Darren, Leoti; and eight grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a Rainbow Baby; father and mother-in-law, Clair and Iona Dierks; brothers-in-law, Steve Wells, Mark Dierks, Harold Dierks and Mike Ritter; sister-in-law, Patty Dierks; and nephew, Hans Dierks.

There will be no calling times.

Vigil and rosary service were held Nov. 11. Funeral Mass will be Fri., Nov. 12, 10:30 a.m., at St. Mary Church, Marienthal, with Fr. Timothy Hickey presiding. The service will be live-streamed on Western Kansas Catholic Facebook page.

Memorials are suggested to the St. Mary Cemetery Project, Marienthal, or Leave a Legacy Foundation, Garden City, in care of Price and Sons Funeral Homes, Box 161, Leoti, Ks. 67861.