Donald K. Simonds, age 85, of Harmony, NJ, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, August 1st, 2024.

Donald was born on March 7th, 1939 in Roseland, New Jersey. He graduated from Grover Cleveland High School in 1957 and enjoyed a successful 42-year career, managing production for paint and resin manufacturers at plants in Newark, NJ, Louisville, KY, and Belvidere, NJ.

Donald is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Lynda Simonds (née Vaughn), his two children Kenneth (Sheila) Simonds of Pen Argyl, PA, and Karen (Michael) Beson of Ocean Twp, NJ; his 6 grandchildren, Melissa (Travis) Shoemaker, Kenny (Ashley) Simonds Jr., Sydney (Jacob) Bishop, Sam Beson, Evan Beson, and Noah Beson; and his 7 great-grandchildren, Savanah, Chase, Bentley, Savanah, Aydriana, Linda, and Ellis. He is predeceased by his parents, Kenneth and Helen Simonds, stepmother Zeida Simonds, and his siblings, Barry and Joyce Simonds.

Donald was known to many as a somewhat reserved and introspective person – his high school yearbook described him as, “A man who keeps his thoughts to himself”, but those who knew him well know that he carried with him a wealth of knowledge and wisdom that he was always willing to share. He spent a great deal of his life outdoors, with a great appreciation and understanding for nature. Specifically, he had a lifelong fascination with moths and butterflies which led him across the world where he collected a plethora of unique and beautiful specimens.  After years traversing the globe, collecting butterflies in the tropical forests of countries like Ecuador, Panama, Malaysia, and Vietnam, Donald’s collection and encyclopedic knowledge made him more than just an amateur in the field of Lepidoptery.

This impressive collection was on display in his basement for many years, to the great enjoyment of his family and friends who essentially had private access to a butterfly museum. Recognizing the value and importance of the work he had done, Donald proudly donated his collection to the Entomology Departments at Rutgers University and Florida University. Donald’s entomological work will be a large part of his legacy, having made a contribution to our understanding of the natural world.

When he wasn’t in the jungle, like Indiana Jones with a butterfly net, he traveled all over the world with the love of his life, Lynda, and spent time with his children and grandchildren. He was a caring, thoughtful, and loving husband, father, and grandfather. He had a great sense of  humor, had a rolodex of catchphrases for seemingly every moment, and coincidentally, Donald could do a spot-on Donald Duck impression. Donald could often be found behind the wheel of a Honda Pilot, where his reputation for impeccably safe and responsible driving was apparent. Donald always did things by the book and with great precision – and was great at communicating and teaching those around him.

A private memorial service will be held in the near future for the family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the New Jersey Audubon Society: https://community.njaudubon.org/page.aspx?pid=359

Donald lived a long and rewarding life – and he will always be remembered for his compassion, thoughtfulness, his heart, and his wisdom. His curiosity and lifelong love for learning are an inspiration to those he touched during his life. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.