Von N Simonson, 88; passed away Thursday, January 27, 2011 at the Spring Creek Living Center in Soda Springs, Idaho after 11 year battle with Alzheimer's.

He was born January 1, 1923 in Central, Idaho to Christine Louise Nielson and Nels Edward Simonson.

He was raised and educated in Central and graduated from Grace High School in 1941.

Von served in World War II in the U.S. Army in the Pacific Theater.

After returning from the war, Von started out his profession in farming with his brother, Orval. Soon after, he also gained employment in the construction of the present day Monsanto. Later he was among the first employees at Monsanto, where he continued to work for 30 years as a machinist. During that time he also purchased the remainder of the family farm from his brother, and continued to operate the farm with his sons while working at Monsanto. Upon retirement from Monsanto, he continued to expand and build the family farm. He continued this love for as long as possible as he worked with his youngest son Eric who runs the farm today.

He married Wilma Olorenshaw December 2, 1948, in Preston, Idaho. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Logan LDS Temple.

He was a High Priest in the Grace LDS 3rd Ward. He served in various church callings in the ward and also served with his wife in the Logan Temple as a officiator for 9 years.

His hobbies included working, hunting, metal working, carpentry, traveling, and creating things to make life easier. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Von is survived by his wife, Wilma of Grace, ID; daughter, Paula (Terry) Larson of Pocatello, ID; Son, Brent (Kristi) Simonson, Inkom, ID; daughter, Linda (Randy) Hubbard, Soda Springs, ID; son, Eric (Eva Jean) Simonson, Grace, ID. He is also survived by 17 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren and on sister, Eileen Rich of Bountiul, UT. He was preceded in death by a stillborn daughter, his parents and tree brothers and four sisters.

Funeral services will be held at 12 Noon, Monday, January 31, 2011 at the Grace LDS Stake Center in Grace, Idaho, with Bishop Eric Simonson officiating. Friends may call Sunday evening, January 30, 2011 at the Grace LDS Stake Center from 7 to 8 p.m., and on Monday from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. prior to the services. Burial will be at the Grace Cemetery with military services.