Daniel J. Simon, formerly of Harrisburg

Daniel J. Simon, formerly of Harrisburg, died. Jan. 21, 2025.

He was born Feb. 19, 1963.

Daniel has returned home to the Lord after battling multiple chronic medical conditions. An active boy, Danny grew up in central Illinois riding bikes between country towns and making friends where ever he could. He quickly became a builder and fix-it man, crafting everything from high school wood-shop assignments, to remote control planes, cars and helicopters, to a 5-foot-tall lighthouse replica that was featured in magazines. This passion continued as he became a diesel mechanic in Harrisburg, building and distributing motors all across the country.

Danny became a private pilot in 1995, like his mother before him in 1974, logging flight hours in his Cessna across the Midwest. He was passionate about flying and shared this experience with others as much as possible. A super-fan of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels flight team, people best remember his Chevy truck painted and dressed as a replica of their jets, navy blue with yellow stripes and matching decals.

The latter part of his adult life was spent in Georgia, working for Loomis, enjoying the ocean air and taking care of his pet birds, of which Tiki, a blue and yellow Macaw, was his best friend. A lifelong devoted Christian, Danny never stopped talking about his faith in the Lord and trusted that God’s plan is always the best way.

Daniel was preceded in death by his loving mother, Barbara VanMeter. He is survived and greatly loved by his long-term wife and partner, LaDonna Simon. He also leaves behind his daughter, Brittany Watson, a granddaughter, and many cousins who were childhood friends.

No services will be held at this time.