Gregory A. “Greg” Simons, Sr, of West Bend, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2026, at Lawlis Family Hospice in Mequon, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Greg was born on March 6, 1950, in Antigo, Wisconsin, to the late Robert and Violet (nee Iverson) Simons. He later moved to West Bend, where he graduated from West Bend High School in 1968. Following graduation, Greg proudly served his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. He served from 1968 until 1971 and was injured while stationed overseas, ultimately receiving an honorable discharge due to those injuries.

After returning home, Greg married his high school sweetheart, Avis Tillou. Together, they made their home in West Bend, where they spent their lives and raised their two children and many family pets.

Greg dedicated his entire career to the West Bend School District, working in the Maintenance Department and serving as the district’s pool operator. Outside of work, he enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. He loved fishing, especially trips out on Lake Michigan with his buddies. Greg enjoyed taking his family out to dinner, especially Friday fish fry’s and prime rib. In his younger years, Greg also enjoyed planting, gardening, and landscaping, taking great pride in keeping his yard looking its best. He loved cheering on the Brewers and Packers.

Greg also had a fondness for trying his luck, whether it was trips to a casino throughout the state of Wisconsin or picking up a few scratch-off tickets. His favorite holiday was Christmas, where he spoiled his family. Above all, Greg will be remembered for his generous heart and kind nature.

Those Greg leaves behind to cherish his memory include two children, Sarah (Timothy) Bohn and Greg (Ashley) Simons; four granddaughters, Kristen (Cheyanne “Keenan”) Fields, Lilyana Simons, Kathryn Bohn, and Emmalin Simons; a sister, Diane (James) Michels; two brothers-in-law, Alvis (Louise) Tillou and Mike Wierman; a stepsister, Joan (William) Russell; special friend and companion, Joanne Adee; a special father and grandfather like to Anne Klein, and Drake and Wilder; his fishing buddy, Rusty DeGueme; family friends, Thomas and Yvonne Koerner; other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents, Greg was preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Avis; a grandson, Tyler Bohn; his stepmother, Joyce Simons; and his stepsister, Kathye Wierman.

In honor of Greg’s wishes, a celebration of life will be held at a later date.

The family extends their deepest appreciation to Dr. Mooney, Dr. Longo, and Dr. Olafsson, and their staff, along with Horizon Hospice, for all the care they provided for Greg.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like you to buy a scratch-off in memory of Greg.