David Bruce Simon, 89, passed away at Kootenai Medical Center, Jan. 17, 2012. He was born Feb. 26, 1922, in Conrad, Mont., to David L. Simon and Etta Mae Bruce.

As a young man, he excelled in athletics and served in the Air Force during World War II. In 1955 he married his sweetheart, Marie Stevens, of Powell, Wyo. They lived in Deer Lodge and Helena, Mont., then settled in Coeur d'Alene.

Being an entrepreneur, Dave dabbled in many business ventures including Tastee-Freez, home-building and Coast-to-Coast Hardware. In 1962 he and Marie were sealed with their children for time and all eternity in the Idaho Falls LDS temple.

He served in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for most of his life, including Bishop of the Dalton Gardens Ward from 1965-1970. They were missionaries for the church in Nauvoo, Ill., New Zealand and Hawaii and rendered service in the Spokane LDS temple later in life.

Dave had many hobbies, most of all loved spending time with his family and friends. He was a great example of hard work and provident living; known and loved for his sense of humor and charisma that was evident to all, even through his final days. People were amazed at his sharp mind and youthful glow.

"Dad" was an exceptional father to eight children: Vickie Young (Doug), Coeur d'Alene; Bruce Simon (Cecelia), Highland, Utah; Pam Nielsen (Kim), Twin Falls; Barbra Anderson (John), Hayden Lake; Joanne Shields (Frank), Rocklin, Calif.; Brad Simon (Judy), Coeur d'Alene; Valerie Rhoads (Dan), Hauser Lake; Kristen Robinson (Gene), Fair Oaks, Calif. He was "Grandpa" to 33 grandchildren and 40 great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank Dr. Neil Nemec, Debbie Moss and the staff at Garden Plaza Assisted Living for their genuine concern, care and friendship.

Viewing will be held from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20, 2012, at English Funeral Chapel, 1133 N. Fourth St., Coeur d'Alene. Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012, at the LDS Stake Center, 2801 N. Fourth St., Coeur d'Alene, with burial to follow at Coeur d'Alene Memorial Gardens, www.englishfuneralchapel.com.