James D. Simonds, M.D., 54, left his family too soon on April 16, 2014, at his home on Browns Lake when he was called to and blessed with the promise of eternal life.
He was born in Racine, to the late Paul and Patricia (Leiby) Simonds. He attended St. John’s and Sacred Heart grade schools and graduated as Salutatorian from Horlick High School.
Dr. Jim graduated in three years from UW-Parkside in 1981 with a Bachelor of Science. At Parkside, he met the love of his life, Lisa Matoska. On June 18, 1983, they were married at St. Casimir Church in Kenosha and had “the best party of their life.”
They attended UW-Madison Medical School together and earned their M.D. degrees in 1985. Dr. Jim and Dr. Lisa completed their Family Medicine Residency in Wheeling, W.V. They practiced in New Richmond for eight years before returning to Racine County to be closer to family. Since 1996 they served the Union Grove community and always shared the same little corner office.
He will be deeply missed and remembered as a loving and devoted husband, the best father his children could ever ask for, and a remarkable and compassionate physician.
Survivors include his wife and best friend of 36 years; children, Chris (Kate) Simonds, Mike (Amber) Simonds, and Laurie Simonds; many relatives and wonderful friends.
Dr. Jim loved to travel, boat, and host friends and family on Browns Lake, and was a great waterskier. God took him too soon. He had too many waterski runs left, vacations to share, sunsets to enjoy, islands to explore, and lakes and seas to sail. His love of life and family, his energy, and friendship will be profoundly missed. He didn’t make a “bucket list” – he lived it with his family. God must have needed an amazing physician and friend in heaven, and took our Dr. Jim.
A memorial service celebrating Dr. Jim’s life was held April 21, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Burlington, led by Rev. Charlie Connelly.
Dr. Jim’s daughter, Laurie, is following in her parents’ footsteps and is completing her second year of medical school at the Medical College of Wisconsin. Dr. Jim was extremely proud of Laurie. Her parents encouraged her desire to become a physician. When Laurie graduates, it will be a wonderful opportunity for the community to have another Simonds doctor.
Donations to the Laurie Simonds Medical School Fund at Community State Bank will help continue Dr. Jim’s legacy.
Maresh-Meredith & Acklam Funeral Home, Racine, served the family.
Well-wishers can visit www.meredithfuneralhome.com.
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