Gary Richard Simonds
Gary Richard Simonds, 70, died Thursday, March 2, 2023, in Claremont, NH. He was born on October 4, 1952, in Bellows Falls, VT, the son of the late Richard and Veronica Simonds (Karnacewicz).
Gary was a graduate of Bellows Falls High School in 1971 and attended Claremont Vocational School earning an Associate in Science Electrician degree. He retired from Sturm Ruger in Newport, NH in 2018 after 41 years working there as a CNC Operator.
Gary enjoyed spending time with his grandson, Nolan. He also enjoyed his beloved pets, World War II history, spending time outdoors and he had various hobbies.
Gary is survived by his son, Nathan Simonds, his daughter-in-law, Laura, his grandson, Nolan of Keene, NH, his sister, Nancy Simonds-Ruderman, her husband, Philip Ruderman of Pittsfield, MA, his nephew, Sean Ruderman, nieces, Marja, and Maggie Ruderman, along with many cousins.
An hour of visitation will take place on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, from 1:00-2:00 PM with a Memorial Service starting at 2:00 PM at the Fenton and Hennessey Funeral Home, 55 Westminster Street, Bellows Falls, VT. Burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Bellows Falls. Family and friends are invited to attend.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish to make a memorial contribution can do so to the Sullivan County Humane Society or to a charity of their choice in Gary’s name.
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Janice Smith
posted March 17, 2023Dear Nathan & Nancy,
Your Dad and I go way back to our childhood.. Some good memories! My condolences to you and your families.
with love,
Janice & Ken
Marty Karnacewicz
posted March 17, 2023Gary was my oldest cousin and I have very fond memories of him over the years. When I was little he used to take my brothers and I in his back yard snowmobiling and also sledding at Uncle Bernie's and Aunt Veronica and Eleanor's house. Gary had a special relationship with my Mom, Margaret Karnacewicz. They were forever joshing and poking fun at each other. My Mom would always look forward to those entertaining encounters and I loved watching them both smile and laugh at the jokes flying back and forth. Gary shared a lot of love with the same people I did. I'm going to miss hit wit!
Leslie Smith
posted March 17, 2023Gary was a good friend since high school days. Gary was there for both the good times and bad.
Luckily most were good.
We shared many laughs and memories.
Often we didn't see eye to eye which let to some great conversations that most times left us standing on common ground.
Gary was very happy he was able to go to the 50th Class Reunion see old friends and share memories and create new ones.
My brother Paul and I will miss running into Gary in Claremont and having him over for cookouts.
Good Bye Old Friend Rest In Peace.
Linda Chaffee Rios
posted March 19, 2023Gary and I were 1st cousins. I live in California and have stayed in touch with Gary since leaving in 1985. I loved his sense of humor and we laughed a lot over the years via cards and letters. A few weeks ago, Gary called out of the blue and we had a fun 45 minute conversation. I will miss the world without Gary in it. God Bless his son, Nathan and his family and cousin Nancy. As we all get older never forget to say I LOVE YOU, to the one's that matter to you. For in a blink of time they might be gone…God speed dear cousin…I will love and miss you, cousin Linda
Micheleen Karnacewicz
posted March 19, 2023My first memory of cousin Gary is playing in the snow with him and Nancy behind Aunt Veronica’s house. He was the biggest, strongest boy I’d ever played with, and the memory of the fun we had together is still strong. Kindness like Gary’s creates indelible memories, thank you for that day of fun in the snow and brambles. You remained kind and loving as we grew up, figured out our next steps and moved on. Rest well dear cousin 🙏❤️
michael karnacewicz
posted March 22, 2023Cousin Gary used to let my brothers and myself ride his Ski Do around the big field at their house,those were fun times. Gary will be missed. Love Smiley.