Mary Jo's Mom dies
Anna Simenson, 84
Alexandria Echo Press
Published Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Anna Mae Simenson, 84, died September 13, 2007 at Knute Nelson in Alexandria.
Ann was born March 16, 1923 in Madelia. She was the first of three children born to Oliver and Henrietta (Holte) Martin. Ann attended school in St. James and graduated in 1941. As a young adult, she worked for a dentist in St. James.
On April 8, 1944 Ann married Melvin Simenson. They moved to Alexandria in 1944 where they raised their three daughters. During this time Ann worked at Knute Nelson Memorial Home as a receptionist. She also was the neighborhood Avon Lady.
Ann was a long time member of First Lutheran Church. She enjoyed playing the piano, entertaining, visiting with friends, going on camping trips with her grandchildren and playing cards. Some of the best years of her life were spent traveling the U.S. with Mel in their motor home. Ann will be remembered for her kindness and generosity to others.
Those left behind to cherish Ann’s memory are her daughters, Connie (Terry) Brueske of Alexandria and Lu Johnson of Carlos; grandchildren, Chris (Kelly) Brueske, Jill (Luke) Vestrum, Lacey (Adam) Baumann and Lindsey (Ryan) Hanson; great-grandchildren, Austin and Mya Baumann; brothers, Robert (Elaine) Martin of Alexandria and George Martin of Platteville, WI; dear friend, Lavina Larson; nieces, nephews and many other friends.
Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Mel; her parents, Oliver and Henrietta; daughter, Mary Jo Benson; and son-in-law, Larry Johnson.
A memorial service was held Monday, September 17 at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria with the Reverend John Peshek officiating. Music was provided by organist Randy Morken and soloist Bruce Nelson.
Inurnment was held at Evergreen Cemetery. Honorary pallbearers were Ann’s grandchildren, great-grandchildren and many special friends.
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(Thanks to Paul Strandberg for forwarding this obituary. We have many fond memories of the family, particularly of our late classmate Mary Jo, and we extend our sympathies.
Mary Jo Benson died surrounded by her family and friends on February 28, 2003, at the age of 55, after a courageous fight against cancer. )
