November 11, 1925 - May 31, 2020

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Dorothy Elaine Simarro

Dorothy Elaine Simarro, a resident of Antioch, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family at 94 years of age. Dorothy’s sweet spirit impacted those around her, and she served as the ultimate role model for family and friends. Everyone who knew her loved her. Dorothy was born in Hogansville, Georgia to Reuben and Louise Zimmerman. She was the eldest of eight siblings and assumed a motherly role. Her days were spent caring for her siblings, always with a child on her hip and reading to them. Dorothy graduated from high school and pursued her education through the Cadet Nurse Corps during WWII. Around that time, she met the love of her life, her husband Leo Simarro. While Leo served in the Army, they corresponded through letters until she finished her Registered Nurse training program. Following its completion, they moved to California together. Dorothy was married for 48 years and raised two sons, Donald and John. She worked as a nurse at Pittsburg and Los Medanos Hospital for 35 years, where she served in many roles, including the Director of Nursing. At age 55, she fulfilled her dream of obtaining her bachelor’s degree. Dorothy and Leo developed a passion for travel. They enjoyed traveling to Spain, where she embraced his Spanish heritage. She had a heart for the Spanish culture and developed lifelong relationships with Leo’s family that continue today. Dorothy was devoted to Holy Rosary Catholic Church where she served as a Eucharistic Minister. The relationships she built through bible study and Crucillo Group were dear to her heart. Dorothy loved volunteering for Caring Hands, the Antioch Historical Society, and the Antioch Senior Center for many years. Throughout her life, what Dorothy treasured most was always her family. She was ever-present in the lives of her husband, sons, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, and extended family. Dorothy was a part of countless meaningful moments in the lives of her family up until her passing. She also developed an endearing relationship with Cherie Misini who provided love, care, and support over the last 5 years of her life. Dorothy is survived by her loving sons Donald (Rhonda) Simarro and John (Karen) Simarro. Grandchildren Chris (Heidi) Simarro, Antonette (Jason) Sorrick, Ryan (Esther) Simarro, Nathan (Jasmine) Simarro, Meghan Simarro, and Kaitlin Simarro. Great-grandchildren Justin, Sebastian, Stella, Summer, Benjamin, Hayley and great-great-grandson Leo. Dorothy is also survived by her loving brother Bobby Zimmerman. Dorothy was laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery in Antioch on Friday, June 5. A celebration of life to honor Dorothy will be held at a later date. Any donations should be made to Holy Rosary Catholic School or to Hospice of the East Bay in Pleasant Hill.

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