Lawrence Simonson

Dr. Lawrence Roger Simonson, 87, of Brainerd died on Sunday, November 25, 2012 at Good Samaritan Village-Woodland in Brainerd, MN from complications of vascular dementia. Larry has been well cared for by the loving staff at Good Samaritan Village-Elmwood and Woodland for the last several years of his life. A Memorial Service for Lawrence will be held on Thursday, November 29, 2012 at 10:30 AM at Good Samaritan Village-Woodland Chapel in Brainerd, MN. Interment will be Friday, November 30, 2012 at 11:00 AM at the Harris Cemetery in Grand Rapids, MN.

Lawrence was born on November 7, 1925 in Albert Lea, MN. Dr. Simonson worked for the University of Minnesota Extension Service as a tourism Specialist for The State of Minnesota. Larry worked with many resorts and the tourism industries doing work shops and resource development. He was known by many in the tourism industry as a pioneer in Minnesota. As one person said "Larry was instrumental in bringing the tourism industry to the forefront of Minnesota." He was the first recipient of the Outstanding Individual of Tourism Award and was honored by the Governor in 1987. He also received many other honors during his career. Larry was a founding father of the Tourism Center at the University of Minnesota. He was a veteran of the WWII Navy Submarine service. In addition, Larry was an avid Christmas tree grower. He also enjoyed gardening, hunting, and fishing. Larry was a member of the Lions Club, Habitat for Humanity, and active in his church in Grand Rapids and Oregon. Larry was quoted as saying that the most important thing in life was his family.

Larry is survived by his children, Susan (Allen), Dwight (Kathy) of Brainerd, MN, Fred (Rita) of California, Jayne (Lindsay) of Oregon, and Gary (Karen) of Virginia; brother, Dr. Gerald Simonson of Oregon; several grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Nancy (mother of his 5 children); second wife and life long friend, Vivian; siblings, Bob and Phyllis. Memorials are preferred to the Good Samaritan Village-Woodland in Brainerd, MN or to a charity of your choice.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brenny Funeral Chapel in Baxter, MN.