COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - USA Archery extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Bud Simon, a longtime Junior Olympic Archery Development (JOAD) Club leader, Level 3 coach, Judge, and tournament organizer.
In nominating Simon for the Archery Hall of Fame in 2013, USA Archery CEO Denise Parker said: "Mr. Simon represents the true spirit of volunteerism and was a tireless supporter of archery in general for over 50 years. Bud is an amazing contributor to this sport and our organization."
Archers, particularly those in the Pennsylvania area, may recall Simon as the organizer of the JOAD Nationals in 1989 and 1993, and the host of many local and regional tournaments in Pennsylvania. Simon founded the Clairton JOAD Club in 1967, and took great pride in introducing archery to countless young people.
Also a Judge for over 25 years, Simon served in this capacity at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta as well as at the 1987, 1990 and 1993 Olympic Festivals. His outstanding knowledge of archery rules, regulations and field setup made him a valuable contributor to countless events. He also coached at the DePaul School for Hearing and Speech, and was part of the Boy Scouts National Camp School staff.
Simon, a lifelong Pittsburgh area resident, had a passion for archery that was evident to all who knew him. "Bud has always been a great inspiration for many people over the years," noted longtime friend Sonya Aloe-Houston. Aloe-Houston's son and daughter received coaching from Simon. "He is in the hearts of many."
Two awards were given to Simon by USA Archery: the 1998 JOAD Award, and the 2006 Thompson Medal of Honor, the organization's highest honor of recognition. Simon also received an award from Chuck Saunders in 1993 for his work in promoting the sport of archery.
Simon was a U.S. Navy veteran, and was stationed in the Pacific Theater during World War II, serving on submarines until his honorable discharge in 1945. He received a Presidential Unit Citation along with his shipmates.
One of his proudest accomplishments was earning an honorary high school diploma in 2013: Simon had dropped out of high school to serve his country in the Navy during World War II. Another proud moment: carrying the Olympic torch for the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympic Games, and serving in multiple Paralympic and World Games.
The archery community has lost a great friend in Bud Simon, who embodied the true spirit of passion for the sport and volunteerism in all that he contributed for over 50 years.
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