Submitted by his Wife

Firefighter Raymond C. Simonis‚ III was a member of the Wissahickon Fire Company of Ambler‚ Pennsylvania for close to 20 years‚ as well as Haz-Mat Team 919 of Montgomery County. He suffered a massive heart attack shortly after responding to his final call on December 19‚ 2007. He was 48 years old.

Ray had so many endearing qualities. His brothers and sisters of the Wissahickon Fire Company will never forget his ability to make them laugh. People always told him he should have been a stand up comic. He had a gift for making people around him feel good and he spread happiness and laughter wherever he went. The memory of his impersonations and stories continue to make us smile through the pain of his loss.

Ray was a loving husband and best friend to his wife‚ Chris. They were together since 1980 and would have celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary this year. He was also a supportive and caring father to his three daughters‚ Marika‚ Alyssa and Gabriella. He has left them with a strong work ethic‚ a determination to never quit when things get rough‚ and an appreciation for the simple joys in life. He passed his love of firefighting to his daughter Alyssa‚ who had the honor of joining the department and running calls with him for 4 years. He is also survived by his parents‚ Ray and Estelle.

Firefighter Simonis was a hardworking man who appreciated time spent with family and friends. Free time was spent coaching his daughters’ sports teams‚ fishing‚ or cheering for the Philadelphia Eagles. Special times were made even better if he was enjoying a great meal and a good cigar!

Ray lived his life serving his community‚ his friends and his family. He gave 100% of himself and expected nothing in return. He would be deeply appreciative and humbled by the honor that has been bestowed on him from the firefighting community. His family is forever grateful to all those who have come to their aid since his passing. Special thanks to the Wissahickon Fire Company for all they have done and continue to do to help us heal and cope with our loss.

Ray was loved and respected by many and sorely missed by all who had the honor of knowing him. The world is a sadder and quieter place without him and he will never be forgotten.