Arlene R. Harms Simons

Simons, Arlene R. Beloved mother, grandmother, age 78, of Coon Rapids with 18 years in Silver Bay, MN. Passed away suddenly, yet peacefully on July 30, 2010. Arlene was born into a large family, May 29, 1932 in Mountain Lake, MN. Her parents, who named her Rosella Arlene Schultz, died when she was an infant. Arlene was adopted, along with one brother, Gus, by Fred and Helen Harms and lived in St. James, MN. Arlene received her high school diploma from Dr. Martin Luther College (DML) in New Ulm, MN. She then attended DML for one year and left to become an "emergency" teacher for third grade in Winona, MN. Arlene married Gene D. Simons Nov. 29, 1952 and raised 5 children. Arlene was an accomplished pianist who taught piano lessons for many years. She served as choir director at Olive Branch Lutheran Church in Coon Rapids and would fill in for the organist. Arlene had a great love and appreciation for the Bible and became a Bible study leader and part of the women's counseling ministry at Way of the Cross Church in Blaine. After moving to Silver Bay with Gene in 1986, Arlene continued to play piano duets with violinist friend Pat at various churches. Arlene had many dear friends and will be remembered as "She opens her mouth in wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue." Proverbs 31:26. In January 2005, Arlene and Gene moved back to Coon Rapids to be near their children. Preceded in death by her parents, seven siblings including Gus Harms in 2010, grandson Joshua Wellman in 1996 and her beloved Gene in 2009. Survived by two siblings and her children, Kristin (Mickey) McCollor, Karen (Rocky) Richardson, Peter (Jane), Kim (Sheldon) Halberg, Jennifer, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Arlene's family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff and residents at DeMar Assisted Living in Coon Rapids. Mom was very happy to call DeMar her home and received compassionate care. Funeral service 1 PM Friday, August 6, 2010 at Way of the Lord (formerly Way of the Cross), 804 131st Ave NE, Blaine. Visitation 1 hr. prior. A lunch will follow. Pvt. Interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Memorials to Children International, P.O. Box 219055, Kansas City, MO 64121.

Published in Star Tribune from August 1 to August 3, 2010

Arrangements under the direction of

Gearhart Funeral Home

Coon Rapids, Minnesota

763-755-6300