Dennis F Simonson

Denny was born May 22, 1941, in Quincy, the son of Wilbur A. and Cecelia Vogel Simonson.

He graduated from Payson High School in 1959, joining Illinois Bell before enlisting in the Illinois National Guard. After completing US Army basic training, Denny relocated to Springfield, continuing to work for Illinois Bell while attending college for a short time. After 32 years of service with Illinois Bell, he retired and was later employed as a consultant and contractor for several companies, including MCI WorldCom and American Surveying & Engineering.

Denny was a member of the Telephone Pioneers of America. As a father, he served as both a baseball coach and a scoutmaster. He enjoyed bowling, dancing, and watching old westerns. Denny was a sweet, gentle, and patient man who had an optimistic view on life. To make people laugh and to bring smiles to their faces was something he strove for with everyone he met.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Malcom W. “Mac” Simonson; stepmother, Afra Simonson; and two stepsisters, Leann and Sr. Judy Peters.

Denny is survived by his long-time sweetheart, Carol Vincent; sons, Mark (wife Andi) Simonson of Seattle, WA, Kevin (wife Angela) Simonson of Springfield, and their mother, Mary E. Simonson of Chatham; grandchild, Sam Simonson of Springfield; brother, Curtiss G. Simonson of Chatham; sister-in-law, Cheryl (Boll) Simonson of Springfield; nephew, Matthew C. Simonson of Springfield; and his beloved cockatiel, Kramer.

Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

Memorial Gathering: Family will receive friends from 3:30 until 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association (https://www.alz.org/illinois/donate)