Simon Norman Lono
March 09, 1963 – May 24, 2019
Consistent with his character, Simon turned his struggle with Myelofibrosis into an opportunity to advocate, standing up for patients whose rare disorders had been neglected by healthcare systems and governments.
This continued his lifelong legacy of improving public discourse in this province and country. Simon always made his trenchant, witty voice heard in public debates on the economic, political and social issues that matter in Newfoundland & Labrador. He also had an international awareness which helped him to process and prioritize important issues at home. He helped refine and clarify the voices of others, preparing political leaders and candidates for debates, drafting policy options and legislation, writing speeches for Premiers, Ministers and Opposition members, and giving wise counsel and advice (whether his insight was popular or not) to anyone who needed it.
Simon was most passionate about passing on those skills to young people. Hundreds of current and former students have benefitted from the countless hours he volunteered his intellect, humour and compassion to teach them public speaking, debating, and model parliament. He taught them to tear apart ideas instead of people, to prefer a joke over a fist pounding the table, and to shake hands with the other side at the end.
Above all, he was a dedicated family man: a loving son; steadfast brother; proud, adoring father and step-father; and delighted grandfather. His deepest joy came from family meals, cooked and eaten in good humour.
Simon was predeceased by his parents Simon and Yolande (née Quesnel) Lono and brother Gordon. He is survived by his wife Deirdre Greene Lono, children Simon and Diana, step-children Sarah (Simon) and Samuel (Katie), brothers Norman (Sarah) and Marc (Rhonda), nephews Vance and Anthony, and niece Bianca.
Simon’s family thanks his dedicated medical team for their tireless efforts. A memorial service will be arranged for summer 2019. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made by cheque to the Newfoundland and Labrador Speech and Debate Union, by mail to 11 Hansen Place, Paradise, NL, A1L 2C4.
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Simon Norman Lono 2019..
Décès pour la Ville: Torbay, Province: T-N