Millinocket – Michael A. Simone, 63, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 13, 2012 with his family and friends by his side at Millinocket Regional Hospital. He was born June 27, 1948, the only son to Anthony J. and Evelyn (Hall) Simone. Mike attended schools in Millinocket and was a graduate of Stearns High School, class of 1967. During his high school years, he played football under Coach Westcott’s winning Little Ten Conference team. Known for his size, Mike stood out as the heaviest school boy player in the state in 1966. After graduation, he went to Northeast Tech in Boston and from there moved to New Jersey working for Hoffman Motors. In 1970, he moved back to Millinocket to work for Katahdin Motors as the parts manager until 1979, when he went to work for the Great Northern Paper Company, eventually working in the finishing department. Mike’s hobbies ranged from old vehicles to hunting, fishing, and a great passion for Italian cooking, which led to helping his wife operate Orvieto’s Italian Market and deli. His talent for creating so many versions of sandwiches never ended. Mike also loved spending time at his camper at Nesowardnehunk and playing cards at the Elks. He was a member of the B.P.O. Elks #1521 in Millinocket, and took part in many of the antique car and truck shows in the state. Mike is survived by his wife, Carolyn Simone of Millinocket; sons, Anthony of Ellsworth and Allen of Smith Pond; a grandson, Zachariah Simone of Whitefield; several sisters and brothers in law, nieces, great nieces, nephews, great nephews, cousins, and many close friends who stood by during his final days with love and support. He was predeceased by his parents and a baby sister, Gladys. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at both the Millinocket Regional Hospital and also at Eastern Maine Medical Center for the care and compassion given to Mike and the family. Also, a very special thanks to those who came daily to visit – John and Bobbie Allen, Richard and Sally Ouellette, Jim Ouellette, Dave Garvin, Bob Gonya, Henry Harper, Judy Leet, Judy and Rob Tapley, Brenda Allen, Joy Allen, Joy and Frank Roy, Deacon Dan, Charlie and Judy Beaupain for sending him the local paper, and for the flowers from Wayne and Sherry Campbell, and also to Bob and Candy Hume as well as to those who called and sent cards. Your efforts are greatly appreciated. To all those who prayed each and every day, please know your prayers were and are welcomed and appreciated. Graveside services will be held 2 P.M. Saturday, June 9 at the Millinocket Cemetery with Deacon Danny Watson officiating. Gifts in memory of Mike may be sent to the American Diabetes Association,P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, VA 22312, the American Heart Association,American Heart Association, P.O. Box 417005, Boston, MA. 02241-7005 or to the charity of one’s choice. Arrangements are by Lamson Funeral Home, Millinocket.