Memorial Services Set for Alderman's Wife

Melba Rebecca Simon, devoted wife of Alderman Rich Simon and beloved community figure, died at home March 7, surrounded by family. She was 70 years old. 

"Becky" passed away peacefully in her sleep, having succumbed to cancer after a two-year battle, her husband wrote. She was known in the community as "one in a million," "the most positive person"—"just an absolute beautiful person." 

Friends say her death leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her—and the Oak Forest community. 

"This wonderful woman who touched so many lives in her 70 years passed away with the same class she showed all of us throughout her life," Simon wrote, of her passing. "Becky fought a long, hard battle for two years, and lived through pain none of us could even imagine. She lost the battle with this horrible sickness tonight. She died at peace with the world and went gladly to meet her savior."  

Recently, after a half-century of marriage, three children and 11 grandchildren, Simon, calling his sweetheart the strongest person he's ever known, humble and down to earth. The pair was nominated and named Oak Forest's Favorite Lovebirds. 

Those who know the couple easily pinpointed what has made them stand out as a community power couple. Simon has served as 2nd ward alderman for a cumulative 30 years. As a parent, he coached local little league, and . Becky was a retired from Oak Forest Hospital after 33 years and was a devoted member of Ladies Auxiliary of Oak Forest Post #4241 V.F.W. 

"I don't know any other family that's been so involved, in so many ways, over the years," Mayor Kuspa said. "They'll give you the shirt off their back."

Obituary
Simon, Melba S. "Becky" Age 70. Loving wife of Richard D. Simon. Beloved mother of Sheri (Gregg) Eichwedel, Todd (Lisa) Simon and Melanie (Steve) Stump. Dearest Grandmother of Matthew, Cari, and Rebecca Eichwedel; Alison (Robert) Valenzano, Josh, Abby and Adam Simon; Andrew, Alec, Dominic and Grace Stump. Fond sister of Crethie (Jim) Spence, Carolyn Thompson, Ronald (Joyce) Storey, Steve (Jean) Storey and the late John (Vera) Storey and Henry P. (Annette) Storey. Member of the Ladies Auxiliary of Oak Forest Post #4241 V.F.W., services Sunday evening 7/8 pm and the Eastern Star, services Sunday evening 7/8 pm, under the auspices of Damascus Chapter #744 O.E.S. Also a member of the Red Hat Club Glad Hatters. Retired 33 year employee of Oak Forest Hospital. Visitation at the McKenzie Funeral Home, 15618 S. Cicero Ave., Oak Forest, Sunday, March 11, 2012 from 2 to 9 pm. Will lie in state Monday, March 12 at the Trinity Ev. Lutheran Church, 6850 159th St., Tinley Park from 9 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m. Interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Bears Care, Ovarian Cancer Fund, 1920 Football Drive, Lake Forest, IL 60045 preferred. For information: (708) 687-2990

How will you remember Becky?

The wake for Melba Rebecca Simon will be held Sunday, March 11 from 2 to 9 p.m. at . The funeral will be March 12, with viewing from 9 to 11 a.m., at with services to follow, at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL. Luncheon afterward at .