Obituary of John Stephen Simcsik

ASHTABULA – John Stephen "Sonny" Simcsik, 89, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Sunday, January 16, 2022. He was born July 21, 1932, in Ashtabula, the son of the Paul and Marian (Keryarto) Simcsik and had been a lifelong area resident. A 1950 graduate of Ashtabula Harbor High School. In 1955 he joined the US Navy and proudly served from 1955-1959 on the submarine tender USS Fulton, before he was honorably discharged. On November 19, 1962, he married the love of his life, Ernestine Augustine Zabransky. Prior to his retirement in 1997, he sailed the Great Lakes on the George M. Humphrey, then he worked on the ore and coal docks, and then retired as a welding test inspector for ESAB, formerly Linde Wire and Union Carbide. Sonny was a member of the Ashtabula Elks #208, VFW Post #943, American Legion Post #103, the North End Club, and the East Ashtabula Club where he was affectionately known as "John Darlin". He enjoyed golfing in his younger days. Sonny was also an avid Cleveland Indians and Browns Fan. He loved sitting on his front porch in the summer days watching the birds and listening to music and Indians games on the radio. Most of all, the time he spent with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren were always the most memorable highlights of his life. His survivors include his wife of almost 60 years, Ernestine Simcsik; four children, Paul S. Simcsik, Stefanie (Larry) Kiphart, Beverly (Mike) Pierce, and Sandra Klingler; a sister, Priscilla Schwenk; grandchildren, Stacy, Jimmy, Justin, and Amber; great-grandchildren, Nicholas, Trevor, JJ, Ella, Cali, and October; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother in infancy; brother, Jeffrey J. Simcsik; and son-in-law, Don Klingler. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, January 22, 2022, at 1:00PM at St. Joseph Cemetery Ashtabula with Fr. Matthew Zwilling, officiating. The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of the Hospice of the Western Reserve for the kindness and care they gave to John over the last few months In lieu of flowers the family suggest memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Hospice of the Western Reserve, 1166 Lake Ave., Ashtabula. Zaback-Williams-Ducro Funeral Home, 500 W. Prospect Rd., Ashtabula is handling arrangements. Online obituary and condolences at www.ducro.com