Donald "Sime" J. Simenson

Donald J. (Sime) Simenson, 84, of Grand Forks, ND passed away on Saturday, May 11, 2013 in Altru Hospital, Grand Forks. Donald James Simenson was born July 11, 1928 in Grand Forks, ND the son of Albert and Marie (Fortin) Simenson. He worked on his father's farm until moving to Grand Forks in his late teens. Donald married Donna Janes on June 12, 1949 at United Lutheran Church in Grand Forks. They made their home in Grand Forks and Donald worked at Bridgeman Creamery. Donald made a career working for the Post Office and retired after 30 years of service. During that time he was awarded the "Super Achievement Award". He also worked part time at his brothers Pepsi Plant. In retirement he worked part time at Orstad's in the old Deaconess Hospital as a janitor and for the Grand Forks Hot Lunch Program. Donald volunteered at Valley Eldercare and was a member of United Lutheran Church. Donald was known as a kind, friendly and gentle man who loved his family and liked the simple things in life. He genuinely cared about others and had the unique ability to make everyone feel special. Donald enjoyed riding his tandem bike with Donna, going to softball games in the park, and watching Sioux hockey. He enjoyed his last few years spending time with Myrna. Donald is survived by special friend, Myrna Jean Olson; daughter, Judi (Wayne) Wedel, Monte Vista, CO, and their children, Erica(Jeff) Kelley; great granddaughter, Caitlyn Rae, great grandson Tripp; Ryan (Cassi) Wedel; great grandson, Cole and great granddaughter, Hollis. Daughter, Peggy (Kelly) Vollrath, Great Falls, MT, and their children, Kris Vollrath, Jim Vollrath; great grandson, Taydem; brother-in-law, Gene Hassel, Sioux Falls, SD and sister-in-law, Dee James, Watertown, SD and numerous nieces and nephews. Donald is also survived by good friend and neighbor Cam Nelson who was like a brother to him. Donald was preceded in death by his parents, wife, brother, Leonard; sisters, Margie Kummer and Dora Simenson. Memorials are preferred to Altru Hospice. Funeral services will be Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at 2:00PM in United Lutheran Church, 324 Chestnut Street, Grand Forks. Visitation will be for two hours before the service in the church. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery, Grand Forks.