Fred F. “Duke” Simon, Jr.
Fred F. “Duke” Simon, Jr. went home to be with the Lord on Friday, February 8, 2013. Born in Oklahoma City on January 3, 1951 to Fred Simon and Thelma Simon, Duke was the seventh person with a hearing disability to earn a Master’s Degree in the state of Oklahoma. Duke devoted his life to teaching children and adults with special needs at the Paul’s Valley State School. After thirty-two years of teaching special education, Duke retired, moved to Oklahoma City and spent five years teaching in Edmond Public Schools. After retiring from teaching, he enjoyed spending his days outside. He spent some of his time working for a swimming pool company, and much of his time in his own front yard, making it one of the most immaculate in the neighborhood. As an infant, Duke almost lost his life, and when he beat the odds, he acquired the name, the Iron Duke. Among Duke’s favorite things was to spend time talking about “stuff” with his family and friends. One never had to guess what was...