The Helene G. Simon Hillel Center mourns the death of Melvin Simon, a visionary community leader. Our thoughts, prayers and sympathy are with his beloved family. His generosity, vision and leadership were truly an inspiration for all. We are deeply grateful to the Simon family for their support and commitment to the Helene G. Simon Hillel Center and Jewish life on the IU campus. Melvin and Bren, his brother Herb, and the family supported the vision and commitment of their brother Fred who stepped forward to build and dedicate the Helene G. Simon Hillel Center in memory of his beloved deceased wife. Melvin's generosity to Indiana University and to countless organizations has helped to shape a much richer and stronger community.

Melvin was a generous, kind, compassionate man whose life exemplified the core Jewish value of tzedakah--a commitment to righteous, justice and making our world and community a better place. We learn from Jewish tradition in Pirke Avot, famous teachings of our ancestors, "“There are three crowns. The crown of learning, the crown of priesthood, and the crown of royalty; but the crown of a good name exceeds them all.” Melvin truly built a good name for himself and will be remembered with deep respect, gratitude and love for his goodness, big heart, commitment to family and his menschlekite (the Yiddish word for the qualities of true goodness and generosity). Words cannot adequately express the impact of Melvin Simon’s life.

Zikhrono livrakha: may his memory be a blessing.

We extend our deepest sympathies to Melvin's family. Mr. Simon is survived by his wife of 40 years, Bren; his children, Deborah Simon, Cynthia Simon Skjodt, David Simon and Tammy McCauley; his grandchildren, Eli, Rebecca, Hannah, Noah and Sam Simon; Erik, Samantha and Ian Skjodt; Tasha and Dylan McCauley; and his brothers, Fred and Herbert. He was preceded in death by son, Joshua Max Simon.