Fern Simon

Fern was born on Oct. 14, 1930, in Iron Mountain. She graduated from Vulcan High School, where her musical talent was already evident. While still in high school, her father proudly recorded her playing several songs on the accordion, which were played at a local gas station. At just 17 years old, Fern boarded a train to Green Bay to begin the next chapter of her life.

Her first job was as an elevator operator at the Northland Hotel. During that time, she met Frank Yankovic, “America’s Polka King,” and had the unforgettable opportunity to perform with his orchestra one evening in Appleton, Wis. She later worked as a telephone operator before dedicating herself to raising her young family.

Fern was never one to shy away from learning something new. As a Cub Scout leader while her sons were young, she enjoyed helping shape the lives of children. She later turned her creativity into a business by designing, sewing and knitting beautiful Barbie doll clothes. After her family’s return from Australia in the mid-1960s with their first poodle, Fern taught herself the art of poodle grooming and successfully built her own grooming business. At the same time, she mastered the specialized craft of re-weaving, expertly repairing holes in men’s suits.

Always eager for a new challenge, Fern attended bartending school in the mid-1970s. She worked at Harbor Lights in Suamico, Oneida Country Club, and Bailey’s Harbor Yacht Club before becoming a partner in the Chicken Shack in Stiles, Wis. Her career continued to evolve as she later managed a team at a microfilm company before finding her final professional home at Green Bay Chiropractic Clinic. She worked there for 16 years, retiring at the remarkable age of 81.

Fern faced life’s challenges with determination and grace. Following an unusual spinal cord injury, she spent the last 15 years of her life in assisted living. There, she became much more than a resident. She formed lasting friendships with staff and fellow residents alike, offering a listening ear, wise advice, encouragement, and her signature sense of humor to the many young caregivers she came to know.

Fern found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved watching game shows and amazed those around her with how quickly she answered the questions. Every Sunday during NASCAR season, she faithfully made her racing picks with her son, Mike. She was an enthusiastic Green Bay Packers fan and could most often be found working on her 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzles.

Above all else, Fern treasured her family. She was preceded in death by her son, Gary Simon; her beloved partner, Owen Schoenebeck; and Lloyd Simon, the father of her children.

She is lovingly survived by her children, Mike Simon (Wanda), Diana Tortelli (Ron), Richard Simon (Terri), and Barbara Timmerman (Gary); her stepson, Tye Schoenebeck (Rebecca); 12 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and many extended family members and dear friends.

Fern’s life was a testament to perseverance, independence, creativity, and lifelong learning. She taught all who knew her the value of hard work, strength of character, and finding humor even in difficult times. Her legacy lives on in the family she cherished and in the countless lives she touched throughout her extraordinary 95 years.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Our family extends our heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at Emerald Bay Assisted Living and St. Croix Hospice for the exceptional care, kindness, and dignity they provided to Mom. Your support and compassion brought comfort to both her and our family, and we will always be deeply grateful.

A memorial gathering will be held on Tuesday, July 21, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Pfotenhauer Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, Howard-Suamico location, 1145 Cardinal Lane. A memorial service led by Pastor Pete Heyn will follow at 3 p.m.

A graveside service on Wednesday, July 22, will be held at Norway Cemetery, N1242 WPA Road, Vulcan, at 11 a.m., led by Pastor Michael Langlais. Lunch to follow.