Leonard Simala

Leonard Simala, 91, passed away on Sunday, December 18, 2022 at his home in Monon.

He was born on August 13, 1931 in Hammond to the late Michael and Stella (Janowski) Simala. On March 9, 1990 he married Romaine Gormack in Crown Point. She preceded him in death on May 8, 2015.

He was a member of Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church.

Lenny served in the Navy for four years before honorably discharged. He worked for Inland Steel Co. in East Chicago as a supervisor in the boiler and weld shop and was a member of Inland Steel 25 year Club. He taught Junior Achievement courses through Purdue University and was a radio D.J. for over ten years. He was a member of AMVETS Post #91 and a member of the Musicians Union. He received various awards from the United Polka Association including Accordion Player of the Year in 1991. He wrote and recorded two popular polka's in the 1960's called Jolly Ollie Polka and Jeanette's Polka. He was the accordion player and lead singer for various Polka bands for over forty years. He enjoyed golf, bowling, fishing and cards. He was a life long Cub fan and was so happy to have seen them win the world series.

He is survived by seven children, Dennis R. (Diane) Simala of Highland, Lenny Simala, Jr. of NC, Diane Gilmore of Hammond, Barbara Fayette of Hammond, Nancy (Sam) Karras of Rensselaer, Jackie (Mike) DeChantal of Highland, Cecilia (Harry) Peterson of Whiting; 17 grandchildren, and 19 great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents and wife, Romaine, he was also preceded in death by siblings, Leona Michalewicz, Cecilia Simala, Alice Melyon; and grandchildren, Brandy and Carole.

Visitation will be Wednesday, December 21, 2022 from 4 pm until 8 pm at Springer-Voorhis-Draper Funeral Home of Monticello. The Rosary will be prayed at 3:30.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11 am on Thursday at Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church with Fr. Chris Miller celebrating.

Burial will follow in Bedford Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be given to Physio Care Hospice. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Friends and family are encouraged to share a photo, a memory, or messages of condolence at www.springervoorhisdraper.com