WASHINGTON 鈥� The man who founded Reston, Virginia, more than 50 years ago died Monday at the age of 101.
Robert E. Simon, Jr. 鈥� the 鈥渇ounder and soul鈥� of Reston 鈥� died peacefully at his home, according to the Reston Historic Trust.
鈥淏eloved in his community, Mr. Simon is remembered for his keen intelligence, wonderful wit, and spirited involvement in all aspects of Reston鈥檚 life.聽 We all will miss him,鈥� the Reston Historic Trust said in a news release.
Simon founded Reston on April 10, 1964. It was one of the first master-planned communities in the U.S.
In an interview Simon said he knew Reston would be so successful.
鈥淵es, I sure as hell did [know it would be successful,” Simon said. 鈥淭hat was the program. The program was for 75,000 people with seven village centers and one town center.鈥�
Simon offered advice for future generations of Restonians.
鈥淕et out of your rooms where you keep your high-techery. Get outside. Get on a bicycle. Get on the tennis court. Row a boat, paddle a boat, sail a boat. All the things that make life for a fuller life than just exercising your thumbs,鈥� said聽Simon.
A memorial service will be held later at a date to be announced, the聽Reston Historic Trust said.
