Craig Phillip Simandl, a beloved member of the community, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2024, at his home in Rye, NY, after a short battle with a rare form of cancer. Born in Bronxville, NY, on May 31, 1964, to Jerome J. Simandl and Joanne Palmer Simandl, who reside in Madison, CT.
Craig graduated from Rye High School, where he was a star lacrosse player. He went on to Hobart College in Geneva, NY, where he made many lifelong friendships. After college, Craig embarked on a career in banking in NYC, which lead him to a unique opportunity in California where he and his family moved for a brief time. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to return to Rye and start a career in residential construction. BHK LLC, was named for his beloved children. He and his business partner excelled in creating high-end houses and additions.
Craig’s love for sports continued throughout his life as an avid tennis and paddle tennis player. He celebrated numerous victories over the years. His athletic ability and coordination were evident in every sport including skiing, mountain biking, volleyball, pool, ping pong, and anything else he tried.
Craig was a loving father to his three children. He cherished every moment spent with them, including riding in his classic mustang or boating on the sound on True Blue.
He was a member of the American Yacht Club his entire life, where he met childhood friends who were by his side until his final days.
In addition to his parents, he is survived by his children Brendan, Hannah and Kyle of Rye, as well as his brothers Chris of Magagnosc, France and Jonathan of Old Greenwich, CT, and their families. He also leaves behind countless aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins, as well as his loving and caring partner AnneMarie Cheverko whose amazing love, kindness, and support will never be forgotten.
Craig’s enthusiasm and zest for life will be deeply missed, as will his warm smile.
A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Saturday, February 24th, 2024 at 12:00 pm at the Church of the Resurrection in Rye, NY. A reception will follow at the American Yacht Club.
Publisher’s note: Craig Simandl managed the renovation of our home on Florence Avenue in 2010. He was a consummate professional and one of the few builders willing to working with us on the myriad of energy efficient elements in our plan.
Here are two of our boys in our backyard watching Craig and Nelstad Ready Mix Concrete of New Rochelle pouring a cement footings on March 25, 2010:
