Don I. Shimmon

Don Irion Shimmon of Lakeway, Texas, passed away on October 1, 2024 at age 96. Born on December 20, 1927 in Turlock, California, he was the beloved son of Joseph and Florence Shimmon and a devoted husband to Marian Shimmon, as well as a cherished father to his son, Richard Simonite and daughter, Sally Buckovinsky.

He led a remarkable life. After graduating from Stanford University, he dedicated his career to the oil and gas industry, becoming the first expatriate to hold the position of Managing Director of British National Oil Company. He served in the Army Corps of Engineers during the Korean War from 1953 to 1955. He lived all over the world, including California, Venezuela, Texas, Tunisia, England, Holland and Italy. There wasn’t a thing Don couldn’t do; he had an incredible ability to fix anything and tackle any challenge from building dollhouses to sewing. Despite his many responsibilities, he always made time for his family and his interests. A man of integrity, kindness, and generosity, he left a lasting impact on each and every family member.

Don had a passion for playing bridge and was proud to be a Life Master. He loved the game, participating in local and regional events, and even shared his expertise by teaching bridge after retiring from Europe to Lakeway in 1988. He also enjoyed playing golf and participating in local organizations in Lakeway such as Sing Along. He was known for his generosity, warmth, big hugs, and quirky sense of humor. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the values he instilled in those closest to him. He will always be remembered for his love of life and family.

Don is survived by his wife Marian; daughter, Sally Buckovinsky; son, Richard Simonite and his wife Trish; grandson, Peter Simonite and longtime partner, Annie; grandson, Nicholas Simonite and his fiancée Anna; granddaughter, Francesca Simonite and her husband Scott McGregor; great-grandsons Leo Gunn-Simonite and Miles McGregor, brother Joseph Shimmon and sister-in-law Joan; and sisters Neva Hofemann and Sally Miller. Nieces Karen Miller and Donnelle Dilbeck and nephews Bryan Miller and Randy Miller also survive him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, first wife Margie Shimmon and his brothers-in law, Mac Miller and Bob Hofemann.

Our family finds comfort in knowing that Don's legacy lives on through the lessons he taught us, the love he shared, and the memories we will cherish forever. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held on November 9, 2024 at 2:00pm at Lakeway Church, Lakeway, Texas. All are invited to join us in celebrating Don's life.