Donald “Don” M. Simmons

Donald M. Simmons, 100, of Blair, passed away peacefully, Saturday, June 11, 2022, in his home, surrounded by his family.

Don was born December 18, 1921, in Oxford, IA, to William and Bertha (Hasley) Simmons. He was a proud U.S. Marine veteran, serving during World War II from 1944 – 1946. He often spoke of being in the Pacific on the islands of Tinian, Saipan, Kwajalein and Guam.

Don married Lennice I. Stutlien, January 14, 1947, at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Independence. They were blessed with 60 wonderful years of marriage. Don and Lennice farmed together in Peterson Coulee from 1949 to 1986, upon which time they retired and moved to Blair.

Known around Blair as “Grandpa Don,” he loved his family and community.

Don is survived by his three children: Rebecca (David) Dalzell of North St. Paul, MN, Marie Dorn of Arcadia, WI, and Eugene (Sheila) Simmons of rural Blair; nine grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; sister, Dorothy Fries of Trenton, MO; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his wife, Lennice, March 22, 2007; sisters: Rachel Johnston, Evelyn Hanson, Irene Weber, Lucille Sobaski; brothers: Herbert, Earl, Joseph, William; and son-in-law, Duane Dorn.

A mass of Christian burial will be held Monday, June 20, 2022, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Ansgars Catholic Church in Blair. Burial with military rites conducted by the Knudtson-Mattison American Legion Post #231 will be in the Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Blair following the service. Father Jeyaseelan Yobu (Father Jey) will officiate.

Visitation will be Sunday, June 19, 2022, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at Jack Funeral Home in Blair where a prayer service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Friends may also call one hour prior to the service on Monday.

Jack Funeral Home in Blair is assisting the family with arrangements.