Beloved Husband, Father, and Grandfather Bro. Mark Luke Simon Sr. of Port Arthur, Texas, 70, returned to his heavenly home on April 28, 2018. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roland J. Simon Sr., and Mary McZeal Simon, brother Marshall E. Simon and sister Cynthia Marie Simon Scypion. His devotion to his family and his firm belief in God supported him in his struggles after suffering a stroke in 2012.

Mark was born to Roland and Mary Simon in Port Arthur, Texas on August 3, 1947. He was immersed in the Catholic community at Sacred Heart Catholic High School, this historic institution would be his educational support from an early age. Mark served in the United States Navy from 1965-1968 attending 2 tours in the Vietnam War. He soon followed in his father’s footsteps as a Merchant Marine Seaman. His nautical occupation for over 30 years stretched throughout many countries in the world. Mark was also a member of Gulf Shore Lodge #397 to the degree of Master Mason and continued his travels.

Mark was blessed with a large and loving family. He married his best friend and high-school sweetheart, Loretta Winefred Simon, on February 14, 1969 in Port Arthur, Texas. Mark helped raise his three children with dignity, pride and good food. He taught them to let no one define them but to define themselves, practice critical thinking and strategic planning throughout life all while loving, laughing and living. Mark often took them on family trips to see the natural beauty of South Texas. Mark was an entertainer at heart. He was hilarious and could tell a story fit for a “picture show”. He is missed dearly by his loved ones, who celebrate the fact that he is at peace with his creator.

Mark is survived by his wife, Loretta; his son Mark Luke Simon Jr.; his daughters Winefred Evette Simon (Delvin) and Ashley Nicole La Russa (Colin), his siblings Roland Simon Jr. (Terry), Willie Simon Sr. (Linda), Elizabeth Christina Simon, his grandchildren Andrea Simon, Christopher J. Simon, Mark Luke Simon III, Anna Haley, Jasmine Simon, Christian “Eli” Simon,  Alijah Haley, Arianna Haley, Chloe Simon, Luke Adam Simon, and great- grandchildren Mark Luke Simon IV and Alijah J. Haley Jr., one god-child, Clifton Williams Jr. and a host of nieces and nephews. His family and friends will miss him greatly.

Memorial Services for Mark Luke Simon Sr.  will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Saturday, May 12, 2018 from 8 am – 10 am with a rosary prayer at 9:30 am. Arrangements under the direction of Gabriel Funeral Home. Funeral reception to follow at the Port Arthur International Seafarers’ Center.