RIP ARTHUR SIMON, SECOND GENERATION OWNER, SIMON & SONS MEN’S CLOTHIER

MR magazine is saddened to report that Arthur Milton Simon, formerly of Randolph, then of Canton and West Yarmouth, MA, has died. He passed away peacefully on Friday, September 16, 2022, at age 90.
Arthur was the father of Beth Faudree, Helaine Gulergun, and Paul Simon, who is carrying on the family business.  Arthur was a successful owner of Simon & Sons Men’s Clothier, currently located in Needham, MA, who loved being a true haberdasher and took great pride in being part of the small business community.
“Arthur truly valued his close relationships with his vendors,” his son Paul, who worked alongside him for many years, told MR magazine. “Even during these last few months as his health declined, his mind would still focus on business. For example, a few weeks ago, I was telling him how strong business has been lately; thanks to so many postponed weddings, we were selling lots of suits: French blue and medium gray… I didn’t even think he was awake, but he jumped in and asked, “How are the vendors shipping? Are they getting goods here on time?” Then two minutes later he was asking me about our cash flow….
“As much as Arthur loved his vendors,” Paul continued, “he also loved his customers, and would come into the store these last few years just to sit and schmooze with them.”
Simon & Sons was founded by Arthur’s dad Leo Simon in 1905. Arthur joined the business in the 1950s after his service in the U.S. Army; he was one of four brothers who worked in the store at various times.
“My dad had a big personality, like most retailers,” recalls Paul. “And a big presence! He was a big guy—six foot three, size 42 long—always dressed meticulously in a suit and pocket square. He never even owned jeans….
“But what I learned most from him was to be honest and trustworthy. ‘Just shoot it straight with people and everything will be fine,’ he would often tell me. He prioritized good relationships with his vendors; his credit rating and his reputation were all-important to him.”
In lieu of flowers, donations in Arthur’s memory may be made to The Walter O’Donnell, M.D. Bronchiectasis Research Fund, c/o Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA 02114.