Jacquelyn Simek

(From Parker Mortuary)

Jacquelyn H. Simek, age 72, Joplin, passed away on Wednesday, March 16, 2022 at Freeman Hospital in Joplin.

Jacquelyn was born August 7, 1949, in Phoenix, AZ, to the late union of Harold and Grace (Russell) Hitchcock. In the words of Jacquelyn, “I was born and raised as a desert rat.” 

She worked as a pharmacy technician for a number of years, but her main passion was always her children and grandchildren. She was an amazing woman that had a little bit of goofiness mixed with sass and was very strong willed. She loved to be around her sisters and help when needed. 

She enjoyed bowling, crocheting, getting her nails done with her daughters, baseball and the Minnesota Vikings. She was an avid reader in her spare time. She played slow pitch softball, baked, and made a delish goulash. Jacquelyn was strong in her faith and attended church when her health allowed it. She was a Sunday School teacher and taught the church choir as well. To her family she was the “in house” hair stylist.

Survivors include her sister, Margie Brown, of Phoenix, AZ; four children, Apryl, of Springfield, MO, Suzanne Simek (Andrea Rickard), of Joplin, MO, Lenny Simek (Andrea), of Boonville, MO, Sara Berntgen (Jeff), of Phoenix, AZ; six grandchildren, Autumn White (Nathan), Connor Berntgen, Cambell Berntgen, Siena Simek, Gabby Simek, Kellen Simek; and two great-grandchildren, Aubrey White and Kayliana White.

The family has asked that flowers be sent to Parker Mortuary.

Celebration of Life will be held Monday, March 21, 2022 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Club 1201 in Joplin, MO.

Cremation arrangements are under the special care of Parker Mortuary.