Richard I. "Dick" Simonds passed away Monday June 19, 2017 at his residence.

Richard was born November 25, 1935 to Ruth E. Simonds Largent and Franklin Simonds. He was a life-long resident of Montgomery County and graduated from Crawfordsville High School in 1953.

Thanks to the Donald Hester family of New Market, Richard was introduced to Marlene Turner, and married in Indianapolis on October 14, 1956. They were owners of a fashion store in Crawfordsville for several years.

Richard served in the National Guard from 1952-1955. He began working at the Journal Review in 1953 and retired from the advertising/sales department in 1999 after 46 years with the company. During his time with the newspaper he served as the advertising director for five years and was President of the Indiana Advertising Executives from 1972-1973. Richard attended many conferences during his career including those held in Dallas, Texas; New Orleans, Louisiana; Los Angeles, California and Columbia University in New York.
Richard was a very active and involved member of his community and, in May of this year, was given a Champion of Character award from Character Counts. He served as past president of the Crawfordsville Jaycees and the Sugar Creek Kiwanis Club. He was the Exalted Ruler of the Crawfordsville Elks Club #483 and was Elk of the Year in 1995/96. Richard assisted with the formation of Little League Baseball in Crawfordsville and coached and/or umpired for 13 years. He was a certified umpire for high school and college baseball for 20 years. Richard was known as the "voice" of Athenian Basketball during radio broadcasts in the 1950's and 60's. For many years, Richard served on the Crawfordsville Parks and Recreation Board, the planning commission, was secretary/treasurer for the Senior golf association, and was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles #1005.

Dick loved his wife, scotch, and his dog Uncle Harry. He also loved golf and could boast about three holes-in-one he received during his lifetime; two at Crawfordsville Municipal Golf course and one at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

Surviving are his wife of 60+ years, Marlene; Sisters, Shirley Paddack, Patsy Simonds, Eileen (Leroy) Shelton; several nieces, nephews and cousins as well as many friends and his dog Uncle Harry.

Visitation will be held Friday at Hunt & Son Funeral Home from 4-8PM. Hunt & Son Funeral Home was entrusted with cremation following the visitation.

Memorial contributions may be made to any of the above listed organizations.