Armando Thomas De Simone

Past Post Commander Instrumental In Building Newtown VFW Hall

Armando “Tom” Thomas De Simone, 93, of Danbury, and Naples, Fla., husband of Dorothy (Dippel) De Simone, died peacefully, November 7, surrounded by loving family members. He was born in Bronx, N.Y., to Anna (DeStefano) and Enrico De Simone, January 21, 1917.

Mr De Simone served in the US Army in World War II and was involved with the initial invasion of Africa, where he was first injured. He returned to his outfit, only to be injured more severely in Sicily. He was a recipient of two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star for valor and bravery serving his country. He was a lifelong member of the Disabled American Veterans. He was past post commander of the VFW Post 308, Newtown, and was instrumental in the building of that VFW hall.

He spent 33 years working in the travel industry. He traveled around the world three times during his tenure with Thomas Cook and Sons Travel Agency in New York City. He never tired of traveling and continued on many cruises and land tours throughout his lifetime.

He was father to Barbara Lynch, Thomas De Simone, and Ronald De Simone, and daughters-in-law MaryLou and Nancy; Ann Victoria Van Steenbergen and her husband, Kurt; as well as to his stepchildren Debra McLiverty, and Linda Frischkorn and her husband, Tim. His family also includes 16 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his first wife, Frances, and a son, Robert. He will be sadly missed by his family and large circle of friends.

Calling hours were scheduled at the Honan Funeral Home, 58 Main Street, Newtown, Thursday, November 11, from 2 to 4 pm, and 6 to 8 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St Rose of Lima Church, Newtown, Friday, November 12, at 11 am, followed by Interment at St Rose Cemetery, Sandy Hook.

 Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, 25 Segar Street, Danbury CT 06810.

The Newtown Bee       November 12, 2010