Albert J Simard Jr.

Albert J. Simard

Albert J. Simard, “Al”, born on June 3, 1942, in Burlington, Vermont, passed away leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories, laughter, and love. Albert was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose kindness, humor, and unwavering support touched everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Albert is survived by his daughter, Dr. Denise Simard, her spouse, Dr. Lori Dandrow; his beloved grandson, Tyrese Simard Dandrow; his sister, Sandra Calabrese and her husband, Carlo; his brother, Larry Ramus and his wife, Judy; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Joan (Tillapaugh)Simard; his parents, Martha Hance Simard and Albert Simard Sr.; his brothers, Wayne Simard and Lionel Simard;
and his sister, Connie Raymond.

Albert's greatest love story began at Harlem Valley Psychiatric Center in Wingdale, New York, where he met the love of his life, Joan Tillapaugh. Never one to miss an
opportunity to make an impression, Albert caught Joan's attention with a whistle and the unforgettable greeting, "Hey, football shoulders!" The spark was immediate. Soon they
were dancing the night away to the music of Chubby Checker and Elvis. They were married on April 27, 1963, and shared 58 wonderful years of marriage, creating a life
filled with love, laughter, family, and adventure.

Albert's work ethic and sense of duty guided him throughout a distinguished career. Over the years, he worked for Pawling Laundry, served with the New York State
Department of Corrections, became a New York State Trooper, and later joined International Paper, where he served as the Chief of Security Officer and the transferred
to the Purchasing Office. In every position, he earned the respect of his colleagues through his integrity, professionalism, and dedication.

To family and friends, however, Albert will be remembered best not for his job titles but for his infectious personality. He was a lifelong prankster who loved making people
laugh and finding joy in the everyday moments of life. He had a passion for fixing things, especially small engines. Family members fondly recall finding engine parts spread
across the dining room table while Albert and his friends worked away on their latest project. The smell of exhaust fumes became a familiar part of childhood memories.
Albert loved adventure. He raced snowmobiles, enjoyed motorcycle riding, cherished family four-wheeling excursions, and loved camping trips with those closest to him. He
drives through the countryside, even Joan’s “short cuts”! The drives often included favorite destinations such as Northern Orchards, Dyer's, and Harrigan's, or a diner with
a good breakfast!

A devoted sports fan, Albert faithfully cheered for the New York Giants and the Los Angeles Dodgers. He was also proudly the self-proclaimed number one fan of UConn
Women's Basketball. He loved traveling with friends to NASCAR races and was an enthusiastic supporter of the late Dale Earnhardt. Sports also became a special bond
between Albert and his daughter Denise. Together they enjoyed many memorable trips to Baltimore, where Denise carefully planned sports-filled weekends and those
unforgettable father-daughter adventures.

Long before the term "girl dad" became popular, Albert lived it. When Denise wanted to play Little League baseball, some questioned whether a girl belonged on the field.
Albert never did. He proudly stood behind his daughter and coached the Mets Little League team, and made sure she had every opportunity to play.
Albert cherished simple pleasures. Whether enjoying breakfast with family and friends, camping at Barber’s Homestead, taking scenic drives, sharing stories, talking on the
phone with his brother Larry, or stepping onto a dance floor to do The Twist, he embraced every moment with enthusiasm and joy.
Albert was also endlessly curious about the world around him. He was fascinated by technology throughout his life and eagerly embraced innovation. From the days of
8-track tapes and early electronics to computers, smartphones, and ultimately artificial intelligence, Albert loved learning how things worked and imagining what would come
next. His curiosity never faded. Fittingly, he used AI to draft this obituary!

Above all else, Albert loved his family. His greatest accomplishment was the life he built with Joan and the love he shared with those around him. He was a steady presence, a
trusted advisor, a proud father and grandfather, and a man whose influence will continue to be felt for generations. His family finds comfort in knowing that somewhere,
Albert is still doing The Twist, dancing through eternity with Joan, and marveling at whatever new technology heaven has to offer.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever in our hearts.

As per Albert’s wishes there are no services. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Plattsburgh Interfaith Food Shelf, Plattsburgh United Methodist Church, 127 Beekman Street, Plattsburgh, NY 12901 or https://www.plattsburghfoodshelf.org/.
Brown Funeral Home is entrusted to handle all arrangements. Online condolences, stories, or memories may be offered at www.brownfuneralhomeny.com.