1944
Kip Simons
2024
Kip Simons
March 20, 1944 — March 15, 2024
Five days shy of his 80th Birthday, Kip unexpectedly passed away on Friday, 3/15/2024. Born in Easton, PA, he was raised by a close knit group of cherished family members. Especially his beloved Nanny and revered Uncle Bob, who supported and guided him. From his beginning, Kip was independent and driven. He was a remarkable athlete who excelled in all sports. Kip chose to focus on basketball as a way to attain a scholarship and be the first of his family to go to college. He went to Temple University, where he reveled in all of his experiences and found his fit. Before graduating, he met his muse, his love, his wife of 52 years, Bette Star. To say that she was the love of his life is an understatement. A man cannot be more devoted to a woman than Kip was to Bette. They had a marriage that mirrored and taught how a marriage should be. It was open and honest, while demanding growth and respect. They embarked on an adventure together, starting with a career in teaching that they greatly enjoyed. This was followed by years of galavanting across Europe and Mexico. Kip and Bette first settled in Chestnut Hill, followed by Erdenheim. This is where they raised their much loved and cherished daughters Gabrielle Hollingsworth (Tim) and Alaysa "Lacey" Conaway (Don). Kip began his photography career in the early 1970's. In 1982, he opened his own studio, Imagery Photography, in Chestnut Hill, which flourished for 40+ years. He loved his career, his clients, and the community of Chestnut Hill, where he could be seen walking his dogs Bear and Tank along the Avenue. Kip had a few signature styles and interests that can never be forgotten. His whispy pony tail, Indiana Jones hat and Cody Musk for Men cologne. His look and scent were as unforgettable as he was. Kip continued his love for athletics past his collegiate years, thru and with many injuries. He had the pain tolerance of Mel Gibson in the Lethal Weapon movie series. He could be tortured by pain, rarely complain and power thru with a smile. All while most people would have been hospitalized to ease their suffering. He was a freak of nature. Kip played ball at Gimbals Gym, and eventually found the Olympic Nautilus Gym in Conshohocken, where he became part of the early morning crew of guys. He developed life long friendship's at both facilities. Kip ventured into his love of scuba diving world wide. These trips brought him so much joy and excitement. He also loved to take his motorcycle for hours long drives down to the Delaware shore, and all around. When Kip wasn't jumping into adventure, he could be found peacefully reading or listening to jazz, blues, classical or reggae music. Kip had a love for the Caribbean. Specifically the U.S.V.I., St. John. He desperately wanted to move/retire there, but his plans were ultimately foiled when Bette broke the news to him that she was terrified of hurricanes. So they bought a house in Bull Head City Arizona of all places. Over 15+years, many weeks were spent on hikes, hosting memorable family gatherings and boating on Lake Mojave. As Kip and Bette transitioned into retirement, they were fortunate enough to discover the world of Standarized Patient Education. Kip worked for many of the medical/nursing schools in Philadelphia, where he acted as a Standardized Patient and Facilitator for over 15 years. He found so much joy and satisfaction in being able to teach again. He was so greatful to be part of making a difference and touching peoples lives, while developing treasured friendships with fellow SP's. The absolute loves of Kip & Bette's lives were their grandchildren Jane Star (16) and Kip Joseph (13). The adoration, joy and love they felt for these two kids was undeniable and palpable. Bette and Kip were their childcare and helped raise them into who they are today. Being their "Biggie" was one of his biggest blessings. These two are what gave him joy and peace after Bette's passing. When Kip eventually moved into his "Villa," attached to the house that he raised his family in, he found his feet solid to the ground. He was home again. He cherished being part of Jane and Kip's everyday lives. Always there for a hug and an I love you when they got off the bus. Kip enjoyed going to the gym multiple days a week at the Y, followed by a stop at the Flourtown McDonald's for a breakfast sandwich and a large Diet Coke. He also liked to frequent the Springfield Library to gather large piles of books that he would read over a short time. Kip did struggle with some health issues over the years, but would NEVER let them get him down for long. He fought like a beast to be as strong and present as he possibly could be. He recovered from two back surgeries a year apart, followed by some rough side effects of prostate cancer treatment. But he ALWAYS rallied. Unfortunately, he was not able to rally thru this terrible, unforseen and fast acting illness. In true Kip fashion, he was driving himself to an appointment 12 hours before he first needed CPR. In the last 6 hours of his life he was conscious enough to communicate his understandings and wishes. As the end approached, Kip was able to finally sprint again to his beautiful bride. And as he did, he left this world in peace, calm and light. Remarkable he was to the end. And his legacy lives on. Visitations will be held at the John F. Murray Funeral Home 1220 Bethlehem Pike Flourtown, PA 19031 on Friday, March 22nd from 6-8PM, and on Saturday, March 23rd from 10AM-12PM. Services and interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donate to your favorite charity, in Kip's name.
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Service Schedule
Past Services
Visitation
Friday, March 22, 2024
6:00 - 8:00 pm (Eastern time)
John F. Murray Funeral Home
Visitation
Saturday, March 23, 2024
10:00am - 12:00 pm (Eastern time)
John F. Murray Funeral Home
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