It's been 3 years without you. We miss you everyday, every moment. You would be so proud of this lovely young woman blossoming and your handsome young man getting taller and taller. We treasure you memories and hold you in our hearts for always. Happy Heavily Anniversary to us.

Been thinking about what to write foe a while.i met simon and karen in 1993 at Sunderland university and always remember how kind and wonderful humans they were . Simon was a interesting person who lived the same things as myself and we as well as karen became good friends. I remember simon with his cheeky smile and the way he listened and made me laugh a lot , his music and love of Star Wars. I was very lucky to also live 2 doors away when I moved to Gateshead and had a lovely time. I lost contact with both karen ans simon but always happy to see the photos of their children and know simon would of made a lovely father. Still think about him and proud to had called him a friend , I won’t forgot you .xxx

It's taken me a while to write this, as it still doesn't seem real. He was the person who greeted me into the college, and guided me through good times and bad. As I got to know him better, I found him to be one of the most genuine, funny and inspirational people I've ever met. Often, I'd be one of the last ones left in the staff room, and before he'd leave, we'd talk over the problems of the day. It was a good way to end the day, five minutes of letting go of our worries, before we went home. He was always honest, caring, and wanted a better world. His approach to managing us, made us want it too. He knew we couldn't fix everything, but at least we could try, and by doing that, he was the best of us, and made us want to be better people too. I shall always miss my friend. "The brightest light burns half as long..."

I met Simon when I worked at the college, and he was such a happy and welcoming man. He definitely improved the lives of everyone who knew him.

We first met Simon when we went to view Gateshead college for our son who has a disability, he was welcoming, honest and realistic. First impressions lasted, he joined the course and has absolutely loved it. So much so he's doing another. He was very upset when he heard about Simon passing away and I send our thoughts to his family. Sometimes people make a difference in your life, Simon made a difference in ours

I first met Simon and Karen back in the days of Durham Road, I have a particular memory of chatting to them at a lively Christmas party in the performing arts drama studio. Simon was such a lovely man, and all though many here have expressed how much they thought of him as a colleague, as well as that side of him in our family we have first hand experience as him as a much - admired and inspiring tutor to a sensitive teenager embarking on a first diploma and level 3 after an unhappy school experience, who under Simon's encouragement went on to achieve a really good degree from University and subsequent excellent job. Thanks so much Simon. Love from Caroline.

An all round genuinely, lovely man. Always brought a sense of calm and humour to the many diverse situations we were in together - generally chasing students around college! He will be a huge miss to students and staff alike. Karen

Simon's enthusiasm and mischief was infectious, his laughter joyful. He was great craic. You’d be delighted if you made him laugh. I knew Simon a relatively short time but his impact is massive. He loved imparting wisdom he believed you should work hard and be proud of the work that you do. He empathised and understood the students in his care completely. He remembered vividly being in there place, the glee of skipping a class or two dodging a bit of homework. This understanding didn't stop him chasing them down though. Free food, googley eyes, tiny rubber hands brought him so much joy, simple pleasures but really what could be more fun? Like many of us I’ve been stunned and stuck in complete misbelief that Simon has been taken, especially from his young family and amazing wife. When he spoke of Amelia and Adam his eyes lit up he was so proud and delighted by them. You will be missed by everyone, Simon.

I feel really lucky to have met Simon as he was an amazing bloke in the College. He had such enthusiasm and passion along with a wicked sense of humour that never failed to put a smile on your face. He is a huge loss to many as he was a friendly, positive energy to be around. Going to miss you. Sending my love to Karen and the kids. Helen xx

Have known Simon quite a few years while working at Gateshead College. Nothing was too much bother for him and he would never ask you to do anything that he couldn't do himself. On open events, he used to come up and pinch some of my sweets (didn't mind). He will be a great miss around college with his happy smiley face.

I will always hold good memories of Simon. Such a kind, friendly man, always ready to pause for a chat with a good bit of Scottish humour thrown in. As well as passing the time of day in the Greenhouse Brasserie queue, I'd often see him in cycling lycra / bright yellow as I'd be dressed the same arriving or leaving the College by bike. We worked together on a funding bid and he showed me the wonders of google docs without making me feel like a technophobe. I'll remember his big kind-hearted smile always. A real loss to the world, taken far too soon. My thoughts are with his family and loved ones x

Such a sad loss, Simon was very influential in both his teaching and personality and I'm sure those influences are still with his former students and those he worked with... RIP Simon

Simon was truly one of a kind. A kind, caring, genuine man without any pretense. He was incredibly supportive of me from the moment I started working as part of his team and gave me so much confidence in my own ability. He was and will always be the greatest boss I ever had. I feel very lucky to have known him as a boss and a friend and the impact he had on my life will never be forgotten. My thoughts are with Karen and the kids, sending lots of love to you all. Joe

Thank you for taking care of us, Simon. A true leader.

Simon was always a really lovely colleague, leader and friend. A very talented and creative guy. It was an honour to know him and learn from him and I will remember him always.

Writing can never describe how an amazing person Simon was and it would never express enough how much he meant for us all. Simon was my lecturer when I went to Gateshead College. He taught me animation and how to use After Effects, he was a great teacher and had always been there for everyone. He wasn’t just my teacher, he was my good friend. I was always worried that I was the oldest student in the class but he encouraged me that there is no age for learning. I remember when Karen was getting nearer to giving birth to Adam, Simon was constantly looking at his phone and couldn’t focus and kept telling us how happy and excited he is. Some students were playing a similar ringtone just to get him to check his phone! He found it funny but we could all see how excited he was. He was such a fun, positive and caring person. A man who loved his family dearly, I cannot remember a day at college where he didn’t mention Karen, Amelia and Adam. I also won’t forget his support when I was going through a difficult time in my life, Karen and Simon were there for me and my daughter. I miss you already Simon, you will live in our hearts forever and your positivity, sense of humour and skills will live in your beautiful children. Rest in peace my dear 💞

A kindred spirit with a wonder for the beauty in life. So many wonderful memories of youthful vigour with Simon, we shared our best years together. He was my Rockstar, my Snake King, my Jim Morrison. I looked up to him so much.

RIP Simon Underhill A great person, who made me want to be a teacher, and gave me one of my first breaks. Someone who I am absolutely sure was a great influence on everyone who was his friend. His students loved him because he was always trying to teach as well as learn from everyone at the same time. He was a brilliant Teacher. He was honest to his students/friends and I loved that. There was very little bullshit with Simon. He was sooo honest, and I miss his rants about work, education and people who annoyed him but somehow despite his struggle he had an infectious positivity. He loved art and music and also made great art and music, and I count myself very lucky to have a exhibition with him and Karen. The world I now know, isn't the same without you Simon but you will remain forever in my heart and thoughts. I loved you and considered you (and Karen) to be a very very special friend/s. I will miss you and the world will miss you dearly. Farewell my friend. Heres a Link to Simon DJing with his music...At an Exhibition featuring: Him, Karen and Me... https://vimeo.com/409441403

I was always a footstep behind Simon. As a kid he introduced me to bands that changed the way I thought about music from The Doors to Loop. I loved his guitar style and will always remember the gig at the Marina where they smashed up a guitar. More recently while I was putting on gigs he was sorting innovative art exhibitions in Hangers in Ouseburn and there I discovered his love of VeeJay. For free he came to gigs and created the backdrops that took them to the next level. When I opened the studio he was there again and created the branding and website (on the attached photo). We jammed with his beloved sequencers. Lately as a stepped into college teaching he was there again. I had so much love and respect for him and I’ll miss him ❤️ Big love to Karen, Amelia and Adam

Simon was a talented man who was devoted to his family. He was also a great colleague who always went the extra mile. I have fond memories of birthday parties (mainly involving fancy dress!) and spending time with his wonderful family before moving to Australia. Only three weeks ago we were all online enjoying Amelia's birthday. Karen, Amelia and Adam my thoughts are with you now. Much love Vicki xxx

Simon - I shall always remember you with a smile on your face. You were kind, thoughtful and supportive when I first started working at Gateshead College, and I valued your creative input. We had some fun times outside of work with our families and friends - and shared happy memories. You will be much missed. Julia x

Simon, there are no words to say how much I will miss you and I truly cannot believe I am writing this. You have always believed in me; in good times and bad you were always there to bring hope and positivity. We are both natural worriers, yet together we seemed to do our best often in the most challenging situations. Our common meet and greets were “ You OK?”, “What’s wrong?”,“It will be fine” “I’ll get you a coffee”. We have laughed and I have cried and you would say “Stop it” - it always seemed to work. I will always be grateful for having you and Karen in my life - both colourful characters with infectious personalities, so much creative energy and true beliefs in making good changes in everything you touched. You welcomed Jessica and I into your world, cherished memories of celebrating birthdays, catch ups where possible, learning how to stilt walk at a remote castle, chilling and drinking red wine in the sunshine for the weekend. We had the Scottish Borders in common, you and Karen relocating to the North East at the same time I studied at Galashiels. Our paths crossed and the bond grew when I started to teach at college in the old Durham road site 17 years ago - I knew then I had found a place I wanted to be as you both inspired me in my teaching role. We were a great team then and Simon you went from strength to strength as our leader in recent times, never forgetting the challenges the delivery team faced and often reminiscing of your classroom days. Simon you are a true inspirational leader, always seeing the best in everyone you meet and providing every possible opportunity for both personal and professional growth. You believed and had huge respect for your team and our young learners. They all loved you and would do anything for you. Sleep tight Simon, Karen you know I am here, anytime. Just pick up the phone night or day. My thoughts are with you Amelia and Adam. I am sure you are proud as we all are of the wonderful individual Simon is and the legacy he will leave behind. Love Sharon XXX

Simon was a kind hearted and funny man. His smile was infectious and his attitude to work was inspiring. He led his team with integrity and passion. He wasn’t just a boss or a colleague, he was a friend. He was a real family man and talked about them with pride often. Having Simon on my team was an absolutely pleasure. Nothing was ever a problem. And when difficult decisions had to be made, he always had a solution that had his students and staff best interest at heart. I will miss him dearly. That broken laptop under his arm! Pacing the corridors looking for students. His laugh. His ideas. He has left a huge hole at Gateshead College. Rest in peace my friend. Xx Deni

We wanted to share some family photos with everyone after reading such comforting and kind words. I don’t think my brother ever really changed and remained a big kid at heart. His two nephews adored him, sharing a love of Star Wars, Dr Who and childish humour which I’m sure everyone can imagine. Simon was a constant torment to me growing up, from chasing me with snowballs, pushing me over steep hills while out sledging (not going over himself of course) to painting me green with permanent paint. People are often surprised by my knowledge of the Dammed having grown up listening to music blaring from his bedroom alongside some other obscure bands most people have never heard of. I was so pleased when he moved in with Karen for the peace and quiet. I’m so proud to think he has had an impact upon so many people and in such a positive way, although he would never hear any of that sloppy stuff. Thank you everyone for sharing your memories.

I started working with Simon 13 years ago, to cover Karen's maternity leave with Amelia. I was new to teaching, but was welcomed into a team where I immediately felt at home: Simon, Steve Crosby, Sharon, Karen, Ally Diamond, amongst a colourful cast of characters at the Old Durham Road site. Simon immediately gave me confidence, asking me to cover some of his Multimedia classes too, as he was going on Paternity leave with Karen and Amelia. I became part of the team, and spent countless breaks and lunches swapping stories of teaching and students, often with positive advice from Simon and others, listening to the dry double-act banter between Simon and Steve, and a witty dissection of music, art and popular culture. Since then, Simon worked hard to become Lead Practitioner and we were all delighted when he was appointed Com. Since then, as a team we have been through many ups and downs, crises and triumphs; Simon has always contributed positivity and inspiration, to be the best that we can be, for the right reasons; for the team, and more importantly, for the students. Always turning each challenge into a positive opportunity for change and growth. Simon was always passionate about art, creativity and teaching, and he made a real difference to many people's lives. His wicked sense of humour made all sorts of stress bearable, and he always made time to support us all as individuals in many different ways. I feel very lucky to have worked with him, and many of his passions, ideas, strengths and jokes will stay with me. Even now I can hear him saying "Oh well...it'll be alright." My thoughts now are with Karen, Amelia and Adam - I hope that you can take strength and hope for the future from the many happy memories you must have of him. Keep his spirit near and alive in your hearts and memories, and celebrate his life and what he achieved with it. He was special, and you should be proud.

I first met you, Simon and Karen way back as young freshers, me not so young. You were together then and have been devoted ever since, going on to be successful people at work and very proud parents. I find it difficult to separate you because it is all I have ever known. You were so well suited and I hope that you, Karen, can take some comfort from this. I am truly saddened and deeply upset. Rest in peace dear Simon and you will always be remembered for being a top guy. Dear Karen, Amelia and Adam, you are forever in my thoughts and prayers. With the greatest respect and sympathy. Xxx

I’ve such fond memories of working with Simon. I first met him when working in the Teaching and Learning Department. He’d often pop into our staffroom. Over the periods I worked in Simon’s department, I was at this point employed part time in HCEY department. Simon used to ‘borrow’ me to cover some of workload. I’m not sure Simon wanted to make use of my teaching skills though. If the truth be known, I think he preferred my baking skills. Simon had such an appetite for homemade cakes and having remembered the cakes I used to bring into the Teaching & Learning Department, each week I was ‘nagged’ to bake cakes and bring them in! When I brought along cake, Simon would cut himself huge and several slices throughout the day. He certainly ate much more than the rest of us! Simon also had such a great sense of humour which attributed to the team bonding and wonderful atmosphere with plenty of fun and laughter in the staffroom. It was a joy to work with Simon and always made a difference to the working day. He was also very supportive and always had time for his staff, no matter what demands were placed on him within his role. My thoughts are with Simon’s family and I hope they gain some comfort being able to read the humorous memories we have to share and knowing how well thought of and respected Simon was. He will be deeply missed.

I will miss Simon so much, he was totally amazing to work with. Simon was a great manager and loved his team. I will miss our chats, we would laugh and sometimes almost cry. I will miss your funny and sometimes sarcastic emails. I met Simon and Karen 20 years ago while we studied the cert ed, we had a laugh then and have continued ever since. I will miss you just being around and will also miss you being at the end of the phone. My thoughts and prayers go to Karen, Amelia and Adam, your husband and dad was the best. Rest in Peace my friend.

Simon was one of my favourite colleagues. Always cheerful, smiley and thoughtful, even when times were tough. He was such a humble hard worker, never knowingly seen without laptop in hand and someone you could always rely on. The impact he had on staff and students was clear to see and he'll be greatly missed by so many. He was one of the good guys.

Looking through the lovely pictures reminded me how thrilled Simon was to grab a selfie with any ‘celebs’ that came in. He was over the moon to get them with Lord Putnam and John Craven & there was Caroline Goodall who I knew from Princess Diaries, although I’m sure she’d been in something more high brow! He was always proud of himself getting the pics and they’d go straight up on his Twitter so he could beat Sharon & Richard in their Twitter stats competition!!

A true gentleman that will be a huge miss to many.

Simon was a force to be reckoned with. He was a sunny, cheeky, irreverent but endlessly supportive character in the gloomy, semi-lit staffroom at Durham Road. We were advanced lecturers together for a while and he was always a force for good. He later helped me immeasurably when he was a smiling, positive, empathetic member of the interview panel when I applied for a college post and got it, thanks to him. He was a lifelong devoted fan of The Damned, and he also often used to do visuals and projections at our gigs in York, Preston, Middlesbrough and elsewhere, with his friend Neil. The images they conjured and projected were both inspired and inspiring, much more than a backcloth - a fantastic adjunct to the music, helping us put on a show for the audience to remember. I remember when he and Karen first came to the North East from Hawick - was it the 80s? - brightening up the world wherever they went with their irrepressible energy and their infectious enthusiasm. It was great when they both came along with a bunch of us on a Punk Bus Tour of Newcastle and Gateshead. Simon was clearly chuffed to meet up and chat with Captain Sensible's brother. Karen, Amelia and Adam are blessed for having had Simon in their lives, as are we all. He will be deeply and sorely missed by them at an already difficult time. There's now a gap in our lives where there was once Simon. And we are all so much better for having known him.

Simon was a very kind, patient, and extremely funny colleague and friend. Whether he was giggling like a school kid with his miniature hands, bursting into my class to announce something mildly inappropriate, or helping me through some extremely stressful times, he did it all with a smile on his face :)

There’s a reason why we have the most hilarious, hard working, loyal, piss taking, pop culture loving, creative, colourful and vibrant team the world has ever known and that’s because it’s leader has all of these attributes in bucket loads and much, much more. My wife has only had the pleasure of meeting Simon a couple of times and was instantly aware of how good of a dad and one of a kind personality he is. She was also heartbroken at the news for me and the team, but more so for the wonderful Karen and the kids as we all are. Thank you for lending me your lucky pen for my last interview, your advice, your friendship and for leaving me the most important job of all... griefing Richard. I will forever miss my mentor, great friend and professional GIF appreciator. I guess we won’t ever know who would have won that cycle race. Love Len

Simon was one of the funniest, most creative people I've ever met. He wasn't just a colleague, but a genuine friend. Will miss going for coffees, sounding off ideas, his advice, talking nonsense, nostalgia, bizarre 80s TV, Star Wars, him continually calling me a fascist and most of all just having a laugh together. He enriched this world by having been in it and i'm grateful to have know you Simon. My heart goes out to Karen and the kids, just such a loss. Will miss you buddy! Love, Richard

Simon was such a joy to see around the place and always had time to chat. He went out of his way outside of college and provided fantastic images for a gig of mine at The Cluny, which must have took a great deal of time and effort. He was just pleased to have helped. Like someone has already said, he was genuinely one of the good guys.

Simon was one of the nicest people I have ever worked with. His positive outlook and infectious sense of humour made both life and work an enjoyable experience. I learnt so much from him in the few years I knew him. He was one of the genuine good guys and will be greatly missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

An amazing man who made me feel welcome and always had time for a laugh. I will miss him immensely. Thoughts to the family in this difficult time.

Always happy to help with a smile, nothing ever was too much. Thoughts are with your family.

Like many I knew Simon from the Durham Road Campus and back then he was the same as he is now, friendly, happy, hard-working, kind, thoughtful, energetic, the list goes on and on. He was a great colleague, a fantastic leader but more importantly a wonderful family man. Gateshead College were an extended part of Simon's family and he cared and nurtured not only his team but any student who needed his help, support and guidance. His laughter was infectious and I cannot think of one single time that I bumped into Simon where he did not shine that beautiful smile and say hello. He truly was an amazing man and I feel blessed to have know him. Karen, Amelia and Adam, I know I speak for every single person that Simon came into contact with, he was one of a kind and you should all take comfort in knowing what a huge impact he has made on all our lives. My heart goes out to you all. Sending much love Helen x x x

Simon had time and a smile for everyone and brightened up the day with his great sense of humour. He is so missed and my prayers and thoughts are with Simon's wife and children. Gwen.

Simon what can I say? You were a true gent, a funny, caring man who always had time to listen no matter what. We will miss you coming into the office just to let off steam and then have a chuckle about it. Your smile lit up the office! You were taken far too soon. With love to Karen & your children. Shine bright Simon you will always be a shining star. With love Suzanne S xx

Simon will be such a huge miss. Whenever he popped his head into our office he'd always raise a smile and his positive energy rubbed off on those around him. I worked with Simon on quality review activities with staff and learners and his priorities were clear - he was passionate about ensuring learners got the best experience and that college had a positive impact on their futures. He really cared about his team and supporting them to give their best. So sorry to lose such a great colleague far too soon. Thinking of his family. Beth

Simon was a great bloke; kind, thoughtful and with impeccable music taste! I've worked with him since way back in the early 90s, when art and performing arts were crammed into what seemed like a corridor behind the main building on Durham Road. He was always good-humoured and fair-minded and generally a great person to be around. Just last year, he came down to the theatre for an hour or so to help one of our degree students develop an authentic Borders accent for a play. It was a fun & funny session, getting Simon to read out a letter she had to write to her admirer! We were really grateful for his help. Lovely bloke. RIP Simon.

Simon was a great guy to work with, always had a smile on his face. You will be greatly missed by all of your Gateshead College family. Sending much love to Simons family, I hope you can take comfort in hearing how loved Simon was and how much he will be missed. Thinking of you all. RIP Simon x

I have known Simon from the old college site, always a very cheerful person Will be missed immensely Mohammed

Simon was very much part of every day life at Gateshead College. I used to see him so often around the corridors, and every time we would say a quick hello, exchange a smile and rarely we had much time to stop and talk...he was a positive figure and he will be very much missed. My thoughts are very much with his family and close friends, who must be going through a very difficult time, and like us all at College probably still in shock for his premature and unexpected departure.

Simon was such a lovable character, always positive and full off smiles. He was a great Manager to his team and will be sadly missed by all of us at the College. Sending my deepest sympathy to Karen and the children. Fly High Simon gone but never forgotten RIP xx

Simon was one of the good guys who helped everyone whether you were a student or staff, his positivity and kindness were an inspiration to us all. He will be a big miss at the College.

Even though our paths didn't cross often, when they did Simon would always say hello with a huge smile - sending my thoughts and love to his family, close colleagues and friends x

Simon was one of the nicest people you could ever meet, always positive and happy. You will be greatly missed, and I’ll miss our Great North Run banter and will be thinking of you this year. Thoughts with your family RIP Simon.

The photographs shared on this page are exactly how I will remember Simon. Smiling. Always smiling and always time for everyone around him A great man who will be terribly missed Sending all my love to Karen and his children Gone too soon Darren

I have worked with Simon for a long time. We were both Advanced Lecturers at the same time, COMs at the same time, and until recently I worked alongside him in his COM role with me in my quality role. I have always had the highest respect for Simon. He was excellent at his job, and cared passionately for all of his students and for his staff. He was one of the most positive people I have ever met - always smiling and a great sense of humour. I will miss him coming into our office to pinch our sweets and cakes! Can't believe he's gone. Rest in peace Simon - you were taken far too soon. My thoughts are with Karen and his children. Barbara

Simon was a fantastic colleague and a great person. I always enjoyed working with Simon, he was totally professional, brilliant at his job, great sense of humour and overall just someone who was good to be alongside. On one hand he was an excellent manager who developed a fantastic, high-performing team and he could report in detail on all the key issues, on the other hand I enjoyed bumping into him sometimes in Sainsbury's on a Sunday afternoon! He was always the same good humoured person who wanted the best for everyone. I reckon I have known Simon for about 20 years and can't believe he isn't here anymore. I will miss his presence enourmously. Kind thoughts to Karen and family Andrew x

Simon always worked flat out to make his staff and students feel welcome at the college. He would be the first person through my classroom handing out a small token to a student for attendance or receiving a compliment from a member of staff. There are a small amount of people who walk around in this world with an inner smile for all to see. You will be missed but never forgotten. Sands

Simon was an asset to Gateshead College. I used to often see him in reception. He would often reply, ‘I’m looking for students, again!’ He cared deeply about his learners and always went above and beyond to support staff. He always maintained a positive attitude and will be greatly missed. He was a great guy!

A real character, who was always pleasant to me as he was everyone. Thoughts with his wife Karen and their children. Eternal peace

Simon was one of the great guys. A true gent who had a smile and warm word for everyone (and such a great chuckle). I will miss seeing him walking the corridors laptop in one arm (I think it was permanently attached or maybe it was his arm?!). He was also the only person I have ever let call me Neigh -deen not Nadine which we'd always laugh about. He cared so much about his work, his students and his staff, and his team were just always smashing it under his leadeship. There is nothing he wouldn't do or try if it would help make things better for them and the college. I've worked with Simon all my working life at Gateshead College and that is a long time. We are a family and his loss will be felt by us all. My love and thoughts are with Karen, Adam and Amelia especially and I hope they take some comfort from all the lovely words and stories people have to share about the wonderful person he was.

We hope that you find this tribute to Simon a place of comfort, support and inspiration for you to visit whenever you want or need to.