Peggy Ann Simonson, 64 passed away on June 6th, 2013 at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena, Montana. Peggy was born June 26th, 1948 to Wayne and Margaret Simonson of Cut Bank, Montana, where she was raised. Peggy attended the University of Montana in Missoula, from 1967 to 1971, where she was a member of the Alpha Phi sorority, and graduated with a degree in Sociology from the school. Peggy eventually settled in her longtime home of Helena in 1979, where she raised her two children Jon, and Carly. Peggy worked for the state of Montana in the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, and the Department of Environmental Quality as a natural resources specialist. She was also a member of the St. Paul United Methodist Church, an active of Al-Anon, and a senior companion.
Peggy was preceded in death by her daughter, Carly Ann Nelson in 2009. Peggy is survived by her son, Jon Wayne Nelson of Missoula, Montana, her sister Diane Adams of Anchorage, Alaska, brothers John Simonson of Missoula, Montana and Tom Simonson of Cut Bank, Montana, Uncle Curt Simonson of Wattford City, North Dakota, and nephews Thomas “Bart” Adams of Anchorage, Alaska, and Luke Adams of Anchorage, Alaska. She is also survived by her very good friends Susan and Kevin Kirley, and Sue Northup.
Peggy was known for her sharp intelligence, fabulous laugh, and love of nonfiction and self help literature. She enjoyed spending time during Summer seasons at her parents’ lake front home on Whitefish lake and her own condominium in Big Fork. Peggy had more than a passing interest in genealogy and did extensive research of her distant relatives. She was also very fond of, and a lover of animals.
A memorial service celebrating Peggy’s Life is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 11, 2013 at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church with a reception to follow the service in the Fellowship Hall of the church. Memorials in Peggy’s name are suggested to St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 512 Logan Street, Helena, MT 59601, and Al-Anon of Helena Montana, PO Box 7413, Helena, MT 59604. Peggy’s family and friends would like to thank Rocky Mountain Hospice for the gracious and compassionate care they provided during Peggy’s final days.
Nancy McLane says
Peggy,
You were a good person and I enjoyed working with you all those years. Life was not always good to you but you were strong and I enjoyed knowing you. You had many friends. I will always remember how you helped organized the airport tree planting all those years ago.
Love always, Nancy McLane
Reenie Carlton says
Peggy, you will be missed. You and Carly are again together now.
Reenie
Cindy Baril says
Our deepest sympathy to all who knew Peggy and loved her. She was a special gal, and I was honored to know her for many years. She was a Senior Companion volunteer for us the last few years of her life and she so enjoyed gaining new friendships at Hunter’s Pointe and was a wonderful support to her clients there. She will be missed.
Cindy
Julie Huntington says
Jon: Your mom and I knew each other in college, and then became reacquainted when you and Carrie were in preschool at St. Paul’s Methodist Church. Emily and Carly became friends through Grandstreet Theatre. And then, of course, we all shared a friendship with Dan. I liked your mom and your sister very much, and know you are missing them. Take care. –Julie Huntington
Pat Money says
I went to high school with Peggy and always admired her genuine friendliness. I was privileged to see Peggy in April and was amazed at her courage and strength. Thank you, Peggy, for these amazing lessons. Frequently there is a bond between classmates that last a lifetime. Thank you, Peggy, for being part of my life.
Joe Anderson says
Saddened by the news of Peggy’s passing. So long ago or maybe just yesterday, Peggy and I danced at the old Cut Bank gym on prom night and ate steak n shrimp at the Vets Club. Always will remember her smile and vivacious nature. Rest in peace…beautiful Peggy.
Jeff Hasskamp says
Jon,
Life is a beautiful, scary and sometimes fair endeavor. I pray that you will find peace and comfort in knowing that your Mom and Carly are together and not in pain. I so appreciate the opportunity of getting to know you.
Much love,
Jeff
Pete Weatherly says
Tom and family,
So sorry for you loss. My heart and prayers are with you all.
Pete Weatherly
Mary Ann Liles says
Dear Jon,
Your mother and I were both in Alpha Phi sorority at UM and shared a room once…then later, we found ourselves living on the same street in Great Falls. I remember you and Carly as little kids. Peggy and I had some wonderful times together, she was so much fun. I am saddened by her death and wish you peace as you grieve both her and your sister.
Mary Ann Liles