Myron “Myke” S. Simon

Myron “Myke” S. Simon, of Newton, passed away peacefully on May 23,2022 at the age of 95.  Beloved husband of the late Rose Reguera Simon for 68 years; devoted father and father-in-law of Laurel and John Bobrowich, Amy and the late Eric Berg, Ethan and Marcy Simon; caring grandfather of David and Eli Bobrowich, Sonia and Charlotte Berg, Samantha and Erica Simon.  Born in Burlington, Vermont, Myke was educated at Boston Latin School (BLS) and at Harvard University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree (1946), master’s degree (1948), and Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry (1949, under the supervision of Robert Burns Woodward). He remained involved with activities related to BLS and Harvard throughout his life.  He joined Polaroid Corporation in 1949 and was the first chemist to synthesize molecules in the research program aimed at creating instant color film, becoming one of the key inventors of the chemistry in the Polaroid Instant Color Photography system, including the dye-developers used in the first Polacolor peel-apart color photo systems and the alkali-stable naphthol phthalein dyes uses in the SX-70 camera system.

He retired from Polaroid in 1988 as a Research Fellow and Associate Director of Organic Chemistry. He was a National Fellow of the American Chemical Society and for many years was active in the society’s Northeast Section.

Both Myke and Rose were devoted to their family and encouraged a love of nature and outdoor activities, often centered around the cabin they constructed in New Hampshire, serving for three generations as a starting point for many expeditions in any season, related to hiking, camping, backpacking, skiing, boating, and bicycling.  Myke believed in the importance of education and never stopped learning.   He was a creative thinker who constantly found innovative ways to solve challenges, whether of a scientific, logistic, or artistic origin.  His calm and caring approach to life, sprinkled with dry humor, brought joy to many.

Myke lived most of his adult life in Newton, MA, most recently he was a resident of Lasell Village in Auburndale.

In lieu of flowers, donations “In memory of Myron S. Simon” may be made to the Boston Latin School or the Harvard University Chemistry Department.

The memorial service and shiva will be private due to Covid-related concerns.