Harold Samuel Simonsen

Harold Samuel Simonsen, age 90, died on Sept. 9, 2011, at Life Care Center of Ritzville.

He was born on Nov. 1, 1920, in Neligh, Neb., to Sam and Margaret Simonsen. At the age of 19 he moved to Chelan for work and met the apple of his eye, Barbara Faye O’Donnell.

They were married on Sept. 28, 1941, in a double wedding with his best friend, and two years later had their first son, James Bryon. He served in the United States Navy during World War II. After his tour, they lived in Chelan, where he began his career at Seattle First National Bank.

In 1951 his twin daughters, Janet Marie and Janel Margaret, were born. They brought their final child, Richard Gene, into this world in 1961.

He was transferred to Lind in 1967, where he was given the branch manager position. Following many years of diligent work for Seattle First National Bank, he retired in 1982.

After living in Clarkson and Spokane, he and Barbara settled into their home in Ritzville, where they have spent the remainder of their 70 years together enjoying life, family and above all, love.

It has been said he loved golfing, bowling and was an exceptional carpenter. He was a friend to all he met and an inspiration to all who loved him.

He is survived by his wife Barbara; children Jim and Judy Simonsen, Janel Rieve, Don and Janet Sanger, Richard Simonsen and fiancée Nikki Easterling; grandchildren, Jennifer, Jason, Lynette, Dawn Marie, Tori Beth and Amelia; and great-grandchildren Taylor, Brandon and Josh.

Memorial services will be held at Danekas Funeral Home in Ritzville on Friday, Sept. 16, 2011, at 1 p.m.