We dubbed him "Joe (English)" which he, with typical good nature, accepted easily. Peter first met him in 1957 when he was a fellow engineering student at McGill and a neighbour in Town of Mount Royal. It was not long before "Joe" was one of Peter's best friends.
When Peter introduced J to his circle of friends, she was equally charmed by Joe's warmth and enthusiasm. Though he was from the mother country, he adapted brilliantly to we colonials. He infused any event with his charm, energy, and good humour. At our wedding in 1965, Joe was both an usher and a photographer.
We were not destined to stay in Montreal and neither were Joe and Marta. We last saw him when we were there briefly in 1969; how often we have hoped to meet and greet one another during all the years since.
We cherish his Christmas letters and other correspondence and our memories of a dear friend.
We send profound sympathies to Marta, Daniela, Nadja and families, who we have come to know, even at a great distance, because of Simon Joe's fond reporting.

love J and Peter Rinfret, Ottawa, Canada

photo- Simon at our wedding in September 1965

It is impossible to express my deep affection for Simon. He was such an integral part of my early life. He was the older brother I never had. He was selfless and gave of his time so freely. Later he would be the Best Man at my wedding. He meant so very much to my parents as well, They adored him and adored Martha, Daniela, and Nadja who were forever missed once the family returned to England. While the news of Simon's passing was not entirely unexpected, it is still a terrible loss to us all. I send my sincere condolences to all the family. May he Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory!

Dear Simon,
We’ve both enjoyed your company over the years.
As well as being missed by your family you will also be missed by many, including ourselves, whose lives you touched.
Rest in peace,
Tim and Desi xx

Thinking of you all , particularly Marta today xxxx 🙏🏼