Darwin Lee Simac “Derwood”, age 47, of East Helena died in automobile accident Monday evening December 31, 2012.
Darwin was born in Cut Bank, Montana on June 2, 1965 to John and Lavonne Simac. He attended elementary school in East Helena, Helena High School, and then college at Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana.
Darwin was the owner of Jackson Creek Saloon. He enjoyed many outdoor activities including golfing, boating, hiking, hunting, and fishing.
Darwin was preceded in death by his sister, Donna Meagher. He is survived by his father, John Simac; mother and step father, Lavonne and Bill Hohn; brothers, Dave (Chris) and Dennis (Teresa) Simac; and sister, Debbie (Mark) Mulcahy; his four children; Chelsea, Tyson, Karlee, and Paxson; one grandchild, Audrina Simac-Umsted; and his partner Kilynn Sharp.
Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Friday, January 4th, at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. The family invites you to join them in praying the Rosary 7:30 p.m. Friday January 4th at SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church in East Helena. Funeral services celebrating Darwin’s Life will be 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 5th at the Gateway Center, 1710 National. A reception will be held in the Gateway Center immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Darwin’s name are suggested to the Education Fund for the Children of Darwin Simac C/O Valley Bank 3030 N. Montana Avenue Helena, Montana 59601.
Service Schedule
Visitation
11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Friday January 4, 2013
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Rosary
7:30 p.m.
Friday January 4, 2013
SS Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church
East Helena, MT 59635
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Saturday January 5, 2013
The Gateway Center
1710 National Ave
Helena, MT 59601
Reception
Following the Funeral Mass
Saturday January 5, 2013
The Gateway Center
1710 National
Helena, MT 59601
Service Schedule
Visitation
11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Friday January 4, 2013
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Rosary
7:30 p.m.
Friday January 4, 2013
SS Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church
East Helena, MT 59635
Funeral Service
2:00 p.m.
Saturday January 5, 2013
The Gateway Center
1710 National Ave
Helena, MT 59601
Reception
Following the Funeral Mass
Saturday January 5, 2013
The Gateway Center
1710 National
Helena, MT 59601
Share
Anna says
My sincerest condolences; I am deeply sorry to hear the news. My thoughts and prayers are with the Simac family during this very difficult, sad time. Please know that all your friends are thinking of you and would like to provide any support in any way possible. Darwin will be dearly missed by all who know him.
Deb Walter says
We will miss Darwin’s twinkle in his eye and smile on his face. Thinking of all the Simac families at this very difficult time. May God bless! Deb & Steve
Theresa Davis says
I just wanted to let you know how very sorry I am. I am thinking about ALL of you, sending lots of prayers and hugs your way. I wish that I could ease your pain and just make it hurt a little bit less. Darwin will not be forgotten! He is with Donna smiling down at all of you…Theresa
Kaysee Williams (Sharp Family) says
Words can’t express how sorry I am for your loss. My heart breaks for you all, my cousin Ki and for my little cousin Paxson, who will not understand where is his daddy is. He loved his daddy so very much and will miss him greatly. I unfortunately, didn’t know Darwin very well but anytime I did see him, which was usually when he picked up Paxson from my Grandmother’s house, he would always have a smile on his face and so would Paxson. His memory & that smile will live on in each & every heart that he touched, including Paxson who is an image of him. Stay stong and know that he is now your guardian angel watching over you. You all are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless.
Abby & Mike Hall says
Sending our deepest thoughts, prayers, and wishes. What terrible news. Now is a time to keep the good memories up front in our minds!
Paul and Betty Bisom says
We will miss you Darwin. You have been a part of my life and left me with many great memories. Thank you for being such a good friend. RIP my friend. Paul and Betty Bisom
Mark and Pam Ehlert says
Our deepest sympathy to all of Darwin’s family and friends. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Carmen and Michael Van Voast says
So sorry about this sad new. May wonderful memories of Darwin flood your families at this time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Kevin and Margaret Kauska says
We are very sorry to hear this sad news. Darwin was always smiling and having fun no matter where he was or what he was doing. He was a great person, seemed to live life to its fullest and we will miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time, may you find peace in your memories.
Katie May says
I want to say to the family that I am very sorry for your loss. Darwin and family helped me when I first moved back by giving me a job and welcoming me like family. Darwin will never be forgotten and will always be watching over you!
Jerry and Brenda Schutz says
We are so very sorry to hear this sad news.
The entire Simac family are in our thoughts
and prayers. With deepest sympathy.
George and Nancy Luther says
Dear John and family, We are so sorry about Darwin.
George and Nancy
Nelma Mosier says
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Darwin always made me smile. He will be greatly missed.
Bob and Rena Spangler says
We have always considered the Simac family dear to us so please know how very, very sorry we are for your whole family for this tragic loss, that we are here if we can help in any way and that our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God bless you all and help you through this most difficult time.
Jessica Heller says
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family in this time.
Tim and Heidi O'Brien says
We are going to miss seeing Darwin around town, seems like he was everywhere and was always making us laugh. I guess God takes all the good people, do help him make the world a better place. Thats the only thing that I can believe, to make this tragedy seem better. We at Chili O’Briens will miss you at the next big event, where we always shared food, drinks and laughs with each other! God Bless my friend
Mo says
So sorry to hear this. My thoughts and prayers are with Darwin’s family and friends. I’ve met him on several occasions, and he was always a nice man.
Diane Sharp says
Lavonne and family: I am so sorry to hear the news of Darwin’s passing. Our family is so saddened by this tragic news. We will miss his smile when walking through the door to pick up Paxson from my Mom’s house. Each time we look at Paxson, we will think of Darwin, it will be a constant reminder. I know this is going to be hard on all of this children and I know that Paxson truly loved his Daddy so much. This is very hard for everyone! Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and all of your family at this time. You will be in our thoughts Lavonne, I know this is a very difficult time for you.
Eric and Brenda Slack says
Dennis, very sorry to here about Darwin’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family in this time.
LaForge Family says
Darwin was a great friend and we will miss his smile!
My thoughts and prayers are with all of his family and friends.
Cousin Mary Ann says
To Uncle John, Lavonne, and Darwin’s siblings, children & friends: My heart aches for all of you; I am so sorry that your loved one had to be taken from this world all too soon. Even though I never saw Darwin a whole lot around Helena, it was such a treat when we did. He would yell at me across the parking lot or in the grocery store, and always with the biggest smile on his face and a sparkle in his eyes. What a kind heart he had, and I pray for that kindness to live forever in your hearts and for the wonderful memories to carry you through this sad and difficult time. Hugs & my deepest sympathy to you all.
Jeff and Maria says
Words cannot express what many are going through, especially the Simac family. Darwin’s bright smile will remain in all our hearts forever! He may be gone but NEVER FORGOTTEN!
“Those we love dont go away, they walk beside us everyday. Unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed…and held so dear”.
Our condolences,
Jeff, Maria, Justin and Brandon Hill <3
Tonkovich Family says
Our hearts are saddened by your tremendous loss. Losing someone so young and in such a devastating way is so unbearable to deal with. May many – many friends surround your family at this time. Darwin was a wonderful man with an amazing smile. May many happy memories of him help you through the days ahead. We will be praying for each and every one of you and sending blessings your way. Wishing you peace………………….
Mark, Wendy, Cuyler, Casey & Collin
Doug and Carolynn Bright says
Doug and I would like to extend our condolences to Darwin’s family. Over the past few years, we have come to know Darwin’s son, Tyson, quite well. Tyson is a smart, well-mannered, hard-working young man with loads of potential. Although his time with his dad was cut short, I’m sure Darwin’s influence will remain with Tyson (and his siblings) throughout his lifetime and serve him well as he builds his own life and family. Remember the good times. Thinking about you all at this difficult time.
Jan Wood says
To Darwin’s Family-
You are all in my thoughts & prayers during this most difficult time.
I met Darwin & the “Jackson Creek Crew” when I worked across the street at Montana City Bank & I will never forget his smile or his laugh.
I would always give him a hard time for taking off in the summer to go play golf & I thought that I was the only one who called him “Derwood”.
May you find comfort in knowing that he will be greatly missed by many & may you be surrounded with friends & family who truly have been affected by this loss as well.
Hugs to you all from Minnesota……………………..
Jan
Kathy Crawford says
Lavonne im so verry sorry to hear about Darwin, My love and prayers are with you and your family at this very difficult time . Darwin will be greatly missed by all that knew him.
Jon and Beth Ries says
Dearest Sympathies for his family. He was a really nice man who always remembered other people.
Beth Giddings says
I want to express my deepest sympathy to Darwin’s family at this time.
I did some business with Darwin and Jackson Creek Saloon for my workplace and was not only impressed with him as a businessman but he was a standout in my mind as a man who was very personable, caring, kind and went out of his way to please people. He will be greatly missed in the community.
Lori Kroll says
So sorry for your loss! Darwin was a great man who always had a smile on his face. I hope that time will help to give you peace in your grieving process. Always know that Darwin is there as your own personal Angel. Love and well wishes to you all!
The Shurtliff Family says
So sorry for your loss. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Love to you all!!!!
Dave & Nancy Duel says
So sorry for your loss. Darwin was one of the funniest guy’s we know. He always had a smile on his face,and his eyes twinkle like stars when he was about to pull a prank on someone. He was an amazing dad, brother, son and friend….God Bless Him and all of his family…He will be greatly missed… Love the Duel’s
Teresa Friedsam says
We are so sorry to hear about Darwin and our sympathies go out to the Simac family. Darwin and I grew up together and I remember the summer times when our families would live near the job sites where our fathers were working, and Darwin and I would play together. Darwin was a carrying and giving man. When told of the news of Darwin’s passing my father reflected on how nice Darwin was to him the other day by the simple gesture of running in to pre-pay for my father’s gas. This is a true demonstration of Darwin’s carrying and giving heart, he will be missed by many. Rest in peace my friend Darwin!
Jerry, Joanne & Teresa Friedsam
Nancy Morse Matkin and Bob Matkin says
Our heart’s our sad at the loss of your wonderful son, brother, dad, uncle, grandfather and friend. Darwin was always such a nice person, had a big smile on his face. Darwin will be missed by so many of his friends.
Tricia O'Connor says
I am so sorry to hear the news of Darwin’s passing. I wish I could take away the pain and heartache you are all going through. I will always remember Darwin’s smile. He was always glad to see you and his happy mood was contagious! My thoughts and prayers are with you all. God Bless.
Jennifer Kysar says
So sorry to hear about Darwins passing. My thoughts and prayers are with his Family.
Barb Metzger says
I am saddened by this tragic loss and my heart aches for his family and loved ones. I also remember a very bright smile and friendly , outgoing personality. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Rest in peace cousin.
Barb Metzger
Mickey (Street) Gregory says
I am so very sorry, when I heard the news of Darwins passing I wept. I know he is in a much better place than we are now. It is still so hard on those left behind to accept the fact that our loved ones have a new address now -heaven- and until we meet again enjoy. Darwins was always a very good friend he always spoke and remembered everyone. He always had a kind smile.
May God bless all the family at this time of loss give comfort and peace to all.
Mandy McMoran says
I am so saddened to hear this news. My heart goes out to the Simac & Sharp families. I had the pleasure of working for and with Darwin & Lavonne “grandma” at Jackson Creek a few years ago. What an absolutely amazing and caring family. I hope you find comfort in the memories of a happy, positive and giving man, father, grandfather, & partner Darwin was.
God Bless
Mandy McMoran
Ron and Brenda Profitt and Family says
We cannot begin to express our sincerest sympathy in the loss of your precious son and sibling. Darwin was truly a special man and we are glad that we knew him. Our prayers are with you all.
With love,
Ron, Brenda and Justin Profitt
Tonja Gies says
Sending many prayers and hugs to Darwin’s family & friends. So very sorry to hear this sad news. God Bless. Tonja Gies Legittino
Denis & Stacy Young Kleffner Ranch says
Little did I know that about a month ago at a basketball game would be the last time I saw & spoke with Darwin. I will truly miss seeing him at our place for weddings. He always had a smile and a kind word to share. Our condolences to all of Darwin’s family. God Bless!
Jeannie and John Lake says
Our thoughts and prayers go to Darwin’s family and friends. I have so many fun memories of working for him bartending at weddings as well as at Jackson Creek. He was a good friend to me and and to everyone he met, always smiling and thinking about others.
Lisa Ophus says
We are very sorry for your loss. I enjoyed the visits we had when he was in Havre.
His smile will be missed. Our prayers are with you.
Lisa, Byron and Brady Ophus
Jill (Bentzen) & Scott Henry says
Remembering back in high school, Darwin was always kind to everyone. I remember one icy day wearing the wrong shoes, and parking too far from the door, and Darwin was kind enough to help me across to the bare sidewalk. I have never forgotten the little things like this. As a business man, and as a human being, he was generous and kind to others, always an advocate for helping those less fortunate. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends who miss him so very much. God Bless.
Jenny (Sahinen) Faure says
Like everyone else I am shocked and deeply saddened by Darwin’s untimely death. I am thankful that I had the opportunity to re-connect with him via Facebook and was looking forward to seeing him this summer at our class reunion. I have many good memories of High School English class with Darwin, he made a dreadful class much more bearable. I, too, will miss his bright eyes, ready smile, and mischievous laugh! My daily prayers for comfort, strength, and peace go out to the Simac family.
I will miss you Darwin. Rest peacefully, my friend.
Leah Linkenbach says
What moves through us is a silence, a quiet sadness, a longing for one more day, one more word, one more touch, we may not understand why you left this earth so soon, or why you left before we were ready to say good-bye, but little by little we begin to remember not just that you died, but that you lived, and that your life gave us memories too beautiful to forget. I will miss you dearly, Darwin.
Sandy and Reese Dickey says
It is hard to find the words to write and we can’t even imagine your loss. The Simac’s were some of the first people we met when we moved to Helena and Darwin will be missed by so many. Please know LaVonne, Dave and family that we are thinking of you and may you find comfort in those around you.
Dave and Carrie Schell says
To all of the family we are very saddened to hear the news. Darwin was such a happy man, with such a wonderful BIG smile, and he was that way everytime you seen him NO matter what. He will be missed so very much. Many thoughts and prayers to the entire family.
Schells
Michele Young-Haight says
My deepest sympathies go out to the Simac family and friends of Darwin. He was a good man and will be missed. Remember to keep those memories of him tucked safely away. He will always be there when you need him.
Todd and Sheri Sullivan says
We send our deepest sympathy to you all! We were saddened to hear the news of the accident. Our prayers go out to the entire family! Lavonne and Dave your in our prayers!
John Sheehy and Jill Golden says
All our sympathy to the family, and all our prayers to the memory of Darwin, a good, kind and decent man gone too soon. We will light a candle for you all.
Rest in peace, Darwin.
Heather Gooch Yarrow says
My name is Heather and I went to highschool with Darwin. We hadn’t seen each other in almost 30 years untill New Year’s eve. We sat down, talking about when we saw each other last, but the majority of the conversation was about our children. Darwin had a hugh smile on his face when he told me about each of his kids. I hope knowing this helps his children in some way. My love and prayers to Darwins Family. Sincerly, Heather
The Starz Family says
We wish to express our sincere condolences to the entire Simac Family. Darwin would brighten any room he walked into, truely a shining star that will live on forever! Please know that our thoughts and prayers from all that knew Darwin are with you now and forever!
Cheri Meier says
All my sympathy and prayers to Darwin’s family over the loss of such a kind and gentle heart. May Darwin’s loving, generous spirit and mischevious laugh live on in many happy memories. I know he loved each of you and his trusty buddy — Jersey– very much.
God Bless, Rest in Peace, Darwin.
Todd & Carrie Stenhjem says
Our deepest condolences to the Simac Family. Darwin was such a wonderful person and left us with great memories. We will miss our friend dearly. We will keep all of you in our hearts and prayer’s. God Bless
Todd & Carrie
John and Thea Sperline says
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and all his friends who will miss Darwin so dearly. While our relationship with him was primarily a non-personal one, as a result of his giving nature and all he did in support of our efforts in fundraising for special causes, his generosity and willingness to help exemplify his nature and spirit. We can all rest comfortably in the knowledge we will meet up again one day. God Bless you Darwin.
Dave & Carol Stahly says
Our deepest sympathy goes out to the entire Simac family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this hard and difficult time.
Marie and Jason Francis says
To the Simac Family:
Our hearts go out to all of you.Darwin was a kind and wonderful person.He will always be missed.
The Francis Family
Mayme Folio says
So sorry, and so deeply torn that I never told Darwin (and LaVonne) how thankful I was of the job he gave me when no one else would. It will always make me heed to do as to others as you would have done unto you. I am deeply endowed to the Simacs for the friendship and livelihood I have always been given the opportunity to have. LaVonne & John I wish comfort in this so familiar time of sorrow. Everyone I have come across has given me a story of Darwin that always involves a smile. Please know that someone has learned, from your son, to always be kind to others, and voice your regrets and rejoices before they go unheard. Much love to you all. Mayme and Marty Folio & family
Bob Enke says
My deepest sorrow for this family during this difficult time. Keeping the family in our prayers.
Iris Hasselstrom Basta says
Lavonne and family – I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Hugs and love to you all. Iris
Tammy Ryan says
HURTS my heart to loose DARWN. I didn’t know him that well but he remembered my face (and drink) and always said “hello.” He came to several functions at the historical society and we really loved having him there cuz he did a great job. He really liked trying the food that was being served and that is not a bad thing cuz I do too! 😉 Darwin …you will be missed by TONS of people! My Prayers to you, your Mom Yvonne, and family.
Say hey to your sister and everyone else up there. RIP
Cousing eve elliott says
Uncle Johnny, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss and I know Darwin will be missed. Am sure Donna was there to greet Darwin and welcome him Home.
JIm Sams Kelly Gregory says
Dennis and the Simac family,
Kelly and I are saddened to hear of the loss to your family,
you are in our thoughts.
Lisa (Gross) and Theo Nehl says
Our thoughts and prayers to the entire Simac family! We are so deeply sorry for your loss. The service was a great tribute to Darwin – he definitely touched many lives. May your memories of Darwin help you through this difficult time.
God Bless!
Toni Mills says
Darwin always greeted you with that smile that only he had! He was fun, kind and just a great person to be around, I will truly miss him!
Ron .& Sharon Lester says
John we are shocked and sadden to hear of Darwins accident. I remember him as a fine young man when Darwin and Debbie stayed with us so many years ago.Our heart goes goes out to you and your Family.
Audrina Simac-Umsted says
I lost my grandpa 10 years ago. I still miss him to this day. I was 2 when this happened now I am almost 12. He is in our hearts even more now.