Here in the Groves, Sima G. is one of our newer residents, bringing with her a strong cultural background and bright spirit. With her kind and caring personality, Sima brings joy to everyone around her!
Sima was born on March 29, 1941, in Maracaibo, Venezuela, into a family marked by resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. Her parents, Jewish immigrants from Briceva, Romania, had left behind Eastern Europe to start anew in Venezuela. Sima was the middle child, growing up with her older sister, Anita, and younger sister, Martica. Her father, a successful businessman who owned a large furniture store in Maracaibo, was a significant influence on Sima, instilling in her the values of hard work and a commitment to family.
Inspired by her father’s entrepreneurial success, Sima pursued a degree in Economics at Universidad Central de Venezuela. Shortly after graduating, she met Joseph, a recent immigrant from Belgium. The two quickly fell in love and, after marrying, moved to Caracas to begin their life together. Sima, always eager to embrace new challenges, learned French from her husband Joseph and became a fluent speaker. This linguistic skill not only deepened their bond but also enriched her cultural experiences, especially during their later years in Europe. The couple also spoke fluent Yiddish, a language they would use in conversations with each other – particularly when they did not want their children to understand them!
In Caracas, Sima and Joseph’s shared entrepreneurial spirit flourished. Together, they founded and managed two successful businesses. The first, Paristil, grew to be one of Venezuela’s largest manufacturers of handbags, a testament to the couple’s shared vision and hard work. The second, Nordiska, became the leading premium bridal registry in the city, known for its elegance and attention to detail. These businesses not only provided for their growing family but also became well-respected names in Venezuelan commerce. Alongside their professional achievements, Sima and Joseph developed a very close-knit group of friends in Caracas, who became like an extended family to them.
Family life was central to Sima’s world. She and Joseph raised three children—William, Samy, and Nathalie—instilling in them the same values of hard work, integrity, and love that had guided their own lives. Sima’s love for cooking and baking was legendary within her family and community. She spent countless hours in the kitchen, perfecting recipes and creating new ones, particularly desserts that became staples at family gatherings and celebrations. Her culinary talents were especially revered at weddings, where her creations were eagerly anticipated.
The early 2000s brought significant changes for Sima and her family. As the political and economic situation in Venezuela grew increasingly unstable, Sima and Joseph made the difficult decision to close their businesses and leave the country in 2006. They relocated to Crans, a small, picturesque town in the French Swiss Alps, where they would spend the next decade of their lives. This period in Crans was often described by Sima as a “second prolonged honeymoon.” Surrounded by the stunning mountain scenery, they developed a close-knit group of friends and embraced the outdoors, frequently hiking and enjoying the tranquility of their new home.
In December 2012, with their children and grandchildren now settled in the United States, Sima and Joseph decided to move once more, this time to Florida. There, they reconnected with their extended family and many friends who had also left Venezuela. Florida offered them the warmth of both climate and community, and they cherished the time spent with their loved ones.
Tragically, Joseph passed away in 2022, marking the end of their long and loving partnership. Following his death, Sima moved to Washington, DC, to be closer to her daughter Nathalie and her older son William. In this new chapter of her life, Sima adopted a dog named Lucky, who quickly became her inseparable companion. Today, Sima continues to be surrounded by family, including her grandchildren, who are a constant source of joy and pride.
Sima’s life is a testament to resilience, love, and the importance of family. Her journey from Maracaibo to Caracas, Crans, and finally Florida and Washington, DC, reflects a life lived with grace and purpose, always guided by the values she holds dear. Whether in business, in the kitchen, or in her role as a mother and grandmother, Sima leaves an indelible mark on all who have the privilege of knowing her.
At the Groves, Sima is a very social resident and loves helping others! She enjoys baking and culinary demonstrations, attending outings, making friends, and staying active by participating in exercise classes. We are so lucky to have Sima here with us!