John Simons, 78, of Park Ave., passed away Tuesday (Dec. 31) in UPMC-Hamot.  Born Sept. 1, 1946 in Kane he is the son of the late Harvey and Charlotte (Trimble) Simons.  He married Karen Sherwood, who survives, in Kane on June 24, 1972.

John served four years in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War.  He then worked at Kane Handle until it closed and Holm Industries until his retirement. He was an active member of the Kane Community Methodist Church.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by six children, Shawn Simons of St. Louis, MS, Erin (Frank) Gardner of Pittsburgh, Michelle Simons of Kane, Ryan (Caitlyn) Simons of Kane, Renee (Robert) Mika of Lewis Run and Joseph Simons of Kane; eleven grandchildren, Liam McKay, Anna and Madison Meyers,, Kaylee and Jack Gardner, Reagan Simons, Ava Sturdevant, Briella Jacobus, Shawn, Tempy and Axel Simons and a sister, Barbara Danuski of Warren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one daughter, Kate Schlopy and one sister, Carol Wheatley.

Friends are invited to attend a visitation at the Kane Community Methodist Church on Saturday (Jan. 4) from 1:00-3:00 p.m.  A memorial service will follow at 3:00 with the Rev. Calvin Cook officiating.

Memorials donations may be made to the Kane Community Methodist Church, 112 Greeves St., Kane, PA 16735 or to the American Cancer Society.

Online condolences can be expressed at www.cummingsfh.com.

The Cummings Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of services.