Anita Simeone
May 1, 1927 ~ March 21, 2024
Anita Simeone passed away peacefully on March 21, 2024, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Anita was born in Bratislava, Slovakia on May 1, 1927, to the late Jan Danis and Maria Pavelka. She met the love of her life, Domenick Simeone, in Germany during World War 2 when he was a prisoner of war. They were married shortly after the war ended in Europe and made their way back to Italy where she and Domenick lived for 10 years prior to immigrating to the United States to start a new life. Their journey was documented as a feature story in a December 1955 edition of the Indianapolis Star. A link to that article is included below.
Arriving in the United States with not much more than hopes and dreams, Anita worked in the kitchen of the Milano Inn until she learned enough English to be moved to the front of the house as a waitress. She often told the story of how many of the Indy 500 race car drivers asked to be placed in her station when they came to the restaurant during the month of May. Her hard work was recognized by many restaurant patrons, and she was eventually lured away to work in the old RCA television manufacturing plant, where she stayed until she retired. In retirement, she enjoyed spending time with her seven grandchildren, in whom she took immense pride, attending their sporting events, dance recitals, and numerous school functions. She was well-known as “Nonna” to her grandchildren and their many friends. Her hobbies included tending to her large vegetable garden where she raised, among other things, over 100 tomato plants for canning to keep her family in fresh sugo through the winter. When not gardening, Anita had a passion for fishing, and shared her love with all by preparing memorable Italian and Slovakian feasts for family and friends.
Anita leaves behind a legacy of love and memories embraced by those closest to her heart. Her daughters Lily (Sam) Rumschlag, Teresa (Tim) Faust, and sons Tony (Clara) Simeone and John (Shelly) Simeone, will forever hold her dear. Among those who mourn her loss are also seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, each a testimony to Anita's love that continues through generations.
A celebration of Anita's life will be held at O’Riley – Branson Funeral Service & Crematory. 6107 S. East Street. Indianapolis, Indiana 46227 on April 1st for visitation from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 520 Stevens Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46203 on April 2nd at 10:00 AM. Entombment will follow at Calvary Cemetery.
Memorials in Anita's name may be made to Holy Rosary Catholic Church or to Miracle Place. Envelopes will be provided at the funeral home.
Please visit www.OrileyBranson.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.
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My mother, Jean Mollaun , and Anita were friends. My husband and I were also neighbors of Anita and we always enjoyed visiting her at her wonderful garden. She had an exuberant personality and was a delight to talk to. Anita and I also shared ownership of a stray kitty who traveled back and forth to see who was giving the best food that day. If I recall correctly, Anita won because she gave fresh canned tuna!
Michelle Bova, Joe, Yeva, Mara has purchased Beautiful in Blue for Anita Simeone
What a beautiful women. She lived a wonderful life. Her story is inspiring. May she rest in peace. Tony, I didn’t realize you looked so much like your mom. ❤️