Dennie L. Simonson, 86, Sturgis, died Monday, January 26, 2015, peacefully at home. Dennie was born May 17, 1928 in Timberlake, SD. He spent his childhood in South Dakota, North Dakota and Montana; graduating from Corvallis, MT, in 1947.

He worked as a carpenter, and then joined the United States Navy, in 1951, serving for four years. After the Navy he went to college and graduated Utah State University. During his college years he began his career with the Soil Conservation Service that spanned thirty years. He also helped begin the Range program that was integrated into 4-H at Broadus, MT. He helped organize Range and Wildlife camps in South Dakota.

After retiring he did some consultant work. He also used his time to help anyone resolve conflict with government agencies and did so free of charge.

He is survived by his wife, Leith; children, Kristi Kym (Scott) Bramwell, Kari (Jim) Russell, Kurt (Kathy) Simonson and Kendra (Eric) Garland. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, four great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Nellie Simonson; brother, Larry Simonson; grandson, Jory Russell.

Click on link to view service folder

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, January, 30, 2015 at the Lifespring Wesleyan Church in Sturgis. Burial follows at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis.



Visitation with the family will be Thursday evening from 5 p.m. until 7 at the Kinkade Funeral Chapel in Sturgis.



Memorial has been established to South Dakota 4-H