Florence F. Simon, age 87, of New Prague, died peacefully surrounded by her family on Tuesday, February 14, 2017, at Oak Terrace Assisted Living in Jordan.  Florence was born on December 21, 1929, in Derrynane Township, Le Sueur County, MN, to Walter and Anna (Plonsky) Laban.  She grew up in the Lexington area and attended County District School and graduated from New Prague High School.  She married Albert B. Simon, Sr. on October 8, 1949, at St. Joseph Parish in Lexington, MN and the couple made their home on a farm east of New Prague.  Florence had a natural love for children and in addition to raising her own eight children, she dedicated her life to the nurturing of over 100 foster children.  Florence was a past member of both the American Legion Auxiliary and the Homemakers of America, and was involved with 4-H when her children were young.  She did a lot of embroidery in her early years and loved cards, gardening, and flowers.  She was noted for baking and decorating cakes for special occasions.  Old time music was usually playing during all of these activities.  Her greatest joy was time with her family.

Florence is survived by her children, Linda (Roger) Pesta of Lonsdale, Debbie (LeRoy) Krenik of New Prague, Albert “Chuck” (Nancy) Simon, Jr. of New Prague, David Simon of New Prague, Jeff (Sally) Simon of New Prague, Tim (Carol) Simon of New Prague, Vickie (Greg) Leverty of Shakopee, Maria (Bob) Hanson of New Prague; foster daughter, Kathy Simon of New Prague; 34 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren.  She is preceded in death by her husband, Albert on January 12, 2005; parents; grandson, Wayne Simon; brothers,  Leonard (in infancy) and Edward Laban; sisters, Gertrude Gostomczik, Dorothy Prochaska, Esther Trinka.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, February 17, 2017 at 6:00 PM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with Father Kevin Clinton officiating.  Visitation will take place from 3 – 6 PM also at church.  Private family burial will take place Saturday morning.