Mr. Henry W. "Hank" Simard, Sr.

UTICA – On Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, Mr. Henry W. “Hank” Simard, Sr., age 87, passed away peacefully after indulging in one of his favorites, a jelly bun. Born in NY Mills on February 22, 1938, Henry was the son of the late Henry and Mary (Sullivan) Simard. He was a graduate of New York Mills High School/of 1955. On October 1, 1966, he joined in matrimony with the love of his life, the former Rose M. Valenzano. Early in their marriage, they resided in New Jersey for a few years before eventually relocating to the Utica area in 1972, where they have since made their home. The couple shared 55 devoted years together prior to Rose’s passing on December 4, 2021. A man of many talents with a knack for people pleasing, Hank held several positions while living in Utica. He always fondly spoke of his time as a taxi driver, which was a position he greatly enjoyed as it was a perfect fit with his extroverted personality and love of other people. He also held employment as a car salesman at various local dealerships. At one time he was the foreman at the former Lally Manufacturing Company. He eventually retired from a courier and security position at St. Luke’s Memorial Hospital. Hank was an engaging person and always able to hold an interesting conversation. He was happiest when he was conversing and interacting with others ~ he could even have an enjoyable time talking to a stranger for the first time! If you did not know where to find Hank, you should have looked for him out fishing. He loved spending time with a rod in his hand, especially preparing for the bullhead. He created so many fond memories out on Delta Lake and at the AOK Campgrounds, where he was affectionately known as the “Bait Master.” A man who loved sports, he followed the New York Yankees and often wondered, “Am I ever going to see another championship?” He also followed Syracuse University basketball, and he always rooted for his alma mater of New York Mills. His favorite spot to sit was in front of the tv, catching any sporting event that was on, especially the New York teams. In his spare time, he would often read Western-themed books. Hank loved all animals and was a major advocate for their wellbeing. He also loved dancing and made so many beautiful memories on the floor with his beloved wife and daughter. He never said no to a trip to Atlantic City or the excitement of Turning Stone or Vernon Down Casino and Racetrack. He also found joy in taking the short trip to the Saratoga Raceway. Henry is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Rose M. and Jonathan Bronson, who was like a son to him and his “partner in crime”; son and daughter-in-law, Henry Jr. and Jennifer Simard; grandchildren, Anthony Donato and Victoria Aldi, Joseph James Aldi and Destiny Godinez, who spent many enjoyable times with Papa, watching movies and having good times, Matthew Michael Aldi and Jarony Nunez, Christopher Henry Aldi; Khloe Rose Simard, and Oliver Henry Simard; and great-granddaughter, Aurora. He was proud to know he was expecting another great-grandchild in June. His loss is also felt by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins; in-laws, Vito A. Valenzano (the late Donna G. (Campbell) Valenzano); and his special friend Steve “Stevie” DiMaggio, with whom he enjoyed many wonderful fishing and story-telling outings together. He was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Donato A. “T” and Rose M. (Leone) Valenzano; and sisters-in-law, Marie D. Valenzano, and Vita L. Ritzel. The Simard family would like to thank the staff of the Pines at Utica their care and compassion. In honoring Henry’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. His committal services will be held at a date and time to be announced. Inurnment will take place in Christ Our Savior Mausoleum at Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Mr. Henry W. "Hank" Simard, Sr.

February 22, 1938 - April 20, 2025