Fred Simon leaves legacy of support for UNMC

Funeral services for Fred Simon, who was a major supporter of UNMC’s College of Public Health, will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, at Temple Israel, 13111 Sterling Ridge Dr., Omaha.

Simon, who was 78, was heavily involved in community service. A tireless advocate for public health, he served as chairman of the college’s campaign committee to raise money to build the Harold M. and Beverly Maurer Center for Public Health, which opened in May 2011.

UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., said that Simon was a truly remarkable member of the Omaha community.

“His generosity and leadership has significantly impacted UNMC and particularly our College of Public Health. A gifted business leader, a thoughtful philanthropist and a community cheerleader par excellent! He has been an inspiration for so many and will be greatly missed. Our very best wishes go out to his family and friends.”

College of Public Health Dean Ali S. Khan, M.D., M.P.H., said UNMC has lost a champion of public health in Nebraska and a real friend of the College of Public Health.

“Besides chairing our fundraising committee, Mr. Simon was a friend and mentor who introduced me to the Omaha community when I first arrived. He was a dedicated, vocal advocate for healthier Nebraskans, and his and his wife Eve’s support has been truly impactful. He will be greatly missed by the entire community.”

In 2012, Simon and his wife, Eve, received the UNMC Chancellor’s Distinguished Service Award for their longtime friendship to the medical center and their steadfast support of biomedical research to mitigate some of society’s most devastating diseases. That same year, the couple was honored by the Nebraska Coalition for Lifesaving Cures at its Annual Tribute Luncheon.

The Simon name is synonymous with Omaha Steaks, which started in 1917. Simon represents the fourth generation of Simons at the international company for which he served as executive vice president. The couple volunteered much time and resources to such worthy causes as:

• The American Lung Association of Nebraska;
• The Jewish Federation Foundation;
• The Nebraska Cultural Endowment; and
• Operations Council of the Salvation Army Kroc Center.

Most notable of the Simons’ contributions to the Omaha community are those that support the arts. For nearly 40 years, the Simons have been advocates and generous supporters of Opera Omaha. Their generosity helped provide productions of the highest quality possible and ensured the company’s longevity.

In addition to their support of Opera Omaha, the Simons have been major sponsors of other key arts organizations in the community, including the Omaha Symphony, Film Streams, Joslyn Art Museum, Omaha Performing Arts Society and the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts.