Simsbury Park Fundraiser To Honor Beloved Board Member Who Died Last Year

SIMSBURY, CT — The Friends of Simsbury Farms group will honor the memory of longtime community member and early organization board member Paul Simeon during its annual golf tournament this month.

The nonprofit's tournament is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 25, at Simsbury Farms Golf Course, with a 9 a.m. tee-off.

Simeon, who died at age 56, was an early member of the Friends of Simsbury Farms board and contributed his time and experience to the organization and recreation complex.

Organizers described Simeon as a thoughtful and positive presence who loved his family, friends, hockey, golf, and the Simsbury community.

"Paul cared deeply about Simsbury Farms, and he cared even more about the people around him," Friends of Simsbury Farms President Gerry Toner said. "We felt it was important to recognize his contribution — and to honor his memory in a way that feels true to him."

The annual tournament raises money for programs and improvements at the Simsbury Farms Recreation Complex.

This year's event will also provide an opportunity for Simeon's family, friends, and community members to celebrate his life at a place he enjoyed.

Simeon's wife, Holly Simeon, said her husband viewed golf as an opportunity to spend time with people rather than simply a competition.

"Paul always said golf was never really about the golf," she said. "The best part was the people — the conversations between shots, the laughter, the friendships, and the time spent together."

She said that philosophy extended beyond the golf course.

"The score fades, but the memories made with family and friends last forever," Holly Simeon said. "Make time for the people you care about. Put down your phone, enjoy the conversation, and be present."

She added that her husband lived a full life despite dying at 56.

"At the end of life, it's not the rounds you played that matter most — it's the relationships you built along the way," she said. "Paul passed away at age 56, but boy did he live a full life — with no regrets."

Friends of Simsbury Farms said it hopes the tournament will be both a meaningful tribute to Simeon and a celebration reflecting his emphasis on friendship and community.

The tournament is open to golfers of all skill levels, but tickets to compete appear sold out, though donations are still being sought and golfers can go on a waiting list.

Friends of Simsbury Farms is a nonprofit organization that works with the Town of Simsbury and its Parks and Recreation Department to support and improve the Simsbury Farms Recreation Complex and the golf course there.

For more information on the Friends of Simsbury Farms Golf Tournament, to donate to the cause, or to become a sponsor, click on this link.