Fallen Suffield Firefighter, West Hartford Audiologist, Remembered

Through his long career as a volunteer firefighter in Suffield, his work as a professional audiologist in West Hartford and his presence throughout town, Paul Simison became a well-known and well-liked man in the community.

Simison’s death in a car accident on Mountain Road near the Congamond Lakes Wednesday caused an unexpected and profoundly deep hurt to his family, friends and colleagues. Flags at Suffield Town Hall and Suffield Fire Department stations flew at half-staff and black bunting hung from station house No. 2 on Ratley Road, where Simison usually drove the fire engine to the scene of emergencies.

Former Suffield Fire Chief Thomas Bellmore remembered Simison for his commitment to Suffield’s volunteer fire department.

“He was very dedicated to the fire service,” Bellmore said. “I think he had a goal to stay on because the number of volunteers were dwindling, so he stayed on. He talked about [possible retirement but] he decided he’d stay on. He knew he could still contribute to the department.”

Bellmore praised Simison’s ability to think critically and calmly. He also made reference to Simison’s professional career.

“He kept telling me I should go see him for my hearing,” Bellmore said.

Simison's audiology practice, the Hearing Improvement Center, was located in West Hartford, but his clients came from all over the area.

“There are many people who know him much, much better that I did. I knew him through his family and profession,” said Suffield Selectwoman Eileen Moncrief. “Paul was an audiologist who was a great help to our son and our family, years ago. He was a compassionate advocate for students with hearing deficits and the school system. He was well respected by everyone. He will be missed by so many.”

Moncrief also said the entire Simison family are active volunteers in the community.

State Rep. And Suffield Town Clerk Elaine O’Brien had to wipe her eyes when she spoke about Simison Thursday. She pointed to his involvement in the town’s fire department, especially the community outreach aspects of his service, including instrumental work in starting the town fireman’s association’s 5k run and fireman’s carnival.

Suffield Police Chief Mike Manzi provided a brief but meaningful assessment of the situation.

“It’s a tragic loss for the town,” Manzi said.