To my sweet uncle,
Thank you for making a better person, for teaching me empathy, for helping me to see the good in all things, and for showing what it is to love unconditionally. The world would be a far better place if we all continued to look at the world like you did, through the eyes of a child. You will be missed always. I love you!!

Thinking of Mark and Kelly during this time of sorrow.  I have lots of great memories of the Simonsen family and ours.  In the early 1960's we participated in exercises 3 times a day with Jaybird that were synchronized with arm, leg and head movements.  We played for hours outside with a rickshaw, riding bikes, playing the statue game, and in hot weather using the slip and slide.  Jaybird always had such a big heart and infectious smile.  When I graduated from nursing school Jaybird made his parents keep my picture on their bedside stand and would not let them remove it.  Mark tells me the picture was found in Jaybird's room as well.  He is in heaven now still laughing and having a great time.  We will meet him again one day.

Uncle Jay,
We all miss you so much. You taught me how amazing it was to have nieces and nephews. Your smile when we said your name was so full of love, I just couldn't wait to be an aunt. It is a very special bond. Introducing you to my children was dream come true as well. You were so worried about little Luke because he just kept crying. He wasn't used to being around so many people but he stopped long enough for you to hold him. As he grew I noticed he had your smile. I am so happy that I get to keep seeing that warm, infectious smile. 

Jay Simonsen singing on the Laradon Auditorium stage
~2004 Laradon Talent Show

I had the true pleasure of knowing and working with Jay on and off for over 20 years in various programs at Laradon. Jay and I had some really great times over those years. He was a really great guy and a fun guy to work with. I was lucky to be his job coach for dishwashing and janitorial jobs like the Arvada Center and the Colorado School of Mines. I specifically remember bus training with Jay on very early and long bus rides. Jay made those long rides enjoyable. Whether we were on the bus or in the car, Jay and I would sing along to the radio or we would sing the Scooby Doo or Flintstones theme songs.  Jay and I sang Pearl Jam’s version of “the Last Kiss” together in my one and only Laradon talent show performance. I could not have done this without Jay. I am sad about his passing, but the light of his smile will always be with us.

I’ve known my uncle Jay for all my life and I loved him very much. Although he has left I don’t want to cry to much because I know he wouldn’t want that. I only want to tell you that I am thinking about all of the great times we had. He was the nicest man I ever met and everyone he knew loved him. I just want all of you to remember it’s okay to cry and morn. Just make sure to think about him and remember that he loved all of us so much. May he be in our hearts and our memories. He is and will be, forever loved.

I did not know Jay, but I have known his brother Mark for 12 years and I know the love the brothers had was like none I have seen. A big park of Marks life has changed. Prayers to the family love a friend

I was honored to be Jay’s PCP for the last decade, after becoming the “doc” at Laradon. It was a move outside of my comfort zone, and Jay was one of the first clients I met. His humor, sincerity, and compassion helped me get past my fears, and opened up a new chapter in my profession career. I owe a debt of gratitude to “Jaybird” for everything he brought to our relationship. I will truly miss him!

What I loved about Jay was the joyful presence he shared with others while he attended day program at Laradon. He always greeted everyone with a smile and pleasant hello. He brightened our days and will be missed so very much. Heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends on the loss of this beautiful person. 
Donna T. 

Jay competing in Special Olympics cross country skiing 

Well what a week this has been. Jay "Jaybird" I sure do miss you big brother.  Though I do miss you, I know you are having a wonderful time in heaven with mom and dad. I am grateful to God for giving you 65 years and 10 months in your earthly body. Grateful for my 52 and 8 months having you as my brother on earth. I am grateful for everything you taught me and I will treasure each moment the rest of my life. You have always been my best friend, my buddy, my big brother who has shown me what love is all about. Your smile so infectious will live on forever in my heart. I will always remember how you protected me.  I love you forever. Your sister Kelley 

I heard so many good things about Jay...  I would have been blessed to know him better.      Prayers  to all his wonderful family.   , Dorothy  +++++..

Uncle Jay,
 Man I love you so much! I am glad you aren't suffering anymore but we weren't ready to let you go. You have influenced and made a difference in more lives than you'll ever know. Thank you for teaching me so much and I can't wait for the day I get to see your huge smile or hear you laugh when someone said something sarcastic. You are amazing. 
Thank you to everyone that has written a message. It's good to hear stories from people he touched. And thank you for helping take such good care of him. He was a true blessing. 
Love you!

Jay will forever live in my heart.    Being in his presence always brightened my day.    A  man who loved unconditionally, always so polite and very caring.

You will be missed sweet soul.
Tracy 

I met Jay just over 2 years ago when I came to work at Santa Fe Home. "Mr. Handsome" always brightened my evening with his smile and his giggles when I helped him get ready for bed. He was always ready to sing along with Elvis and to laugh at my attempts to dance the twist. 

Hey, Jay, wanna know why? Because pigs fly, that's why!

I had the blessing of working with Jay since March when Covid hit. I spent many hours working with him one on one and he has been a light in my life. His infectious smile AND the best blue eyes.. and his many sayings I’ll never forget. He made the world a better place. 
“Why do pigs do a jig?” 🤷🏻‍♀️
Let it be by The Beatles along with many other jams we listened to 💜


Dear Jay,

I remember going to lunch with you and Mary what seems like just a few years ago. It is hard to believe you are both gone now. You were the first person I ever met who had Intellectual Disabilities. I remember talking to you, and your sweet mom, when I was deciding to be a Special Education teacher, and again when I was in college learning. You both were an inspiration to me. I know your life was often difficult, but I hope you are proud of the mark you left on the world. Because of the way you lived your life, and how you inspired others, the world is a little kinder and safer for other people with disabilities. Thank you for being a patient teacher and for helping those who knew you, including me, to learn how to treat the people they serve with dignity and respect. Lots of love to your family, and to the other people who shared your life. God speed Jay.

I had the pleasure of being one of Jay's caregivers for the last five years. I always enjoyed listening to him sing along to Elivs and the Beatles. He loved playing catch with staff almost everyday. I will never forget his contagious smile that would bring joy to all around him!

Dear Jay, 
You made me laugh every day I came to work. You were so kind and so complimentary (“I didn’t know you were an expert at that!” “I’m doing smashing, thanks for asking.” “Incomiiiing!”). It was such a pleasure to know you and to get to work with you. Thank you for your kindness and for singing and playing catch with me, and just being your wonderful self. I hope you are happy. 
Love to Jay’s family. 

Kerry 

Jay,
As small children, we (Mark, you and I) played together.  Your gentle kindness was apparent from the start.  I remember playing at your house, and your mom made lunch.  My mother loved your mom.  Deep respect for her dedication to the Tiny Tim Center, and doing birthday telegrams.  Your mom is a reason I went into show business!  Mark and I have kept up through the years. 
Your sweet smile, reminds me of the power of love.  You loved, and were deeply loved in return.  Give my best to your parents. I know you all are happy, healthy, and watching out for us.  I'll never forget you, dear man.

Jay
I did not know you personally, I want to thank you for all the joy you brought my friend Mark! He told me many stories, how you told the nurse to call so you could thank him! And of the jokes you were telling! I heard the story about how you came into this world and that you were an inspiration for Tiny Tim Center. I know your family misses you! I will keep your brother in line! 
Pamela

Jay bird. You have always been my big brother and have showed me unconditional ❤.  You're at home now with mom and dad.  I love you bunches and miss you so much.

OBITUARY

Charles Jay Simonsen

21 January, 1955 – 21 November, 2020

Ahlberg Funeral Chapel

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Updates

Services