Darlene Simonson

Simonson, Darlene V. (Knoll)

Darlene V. (Knoll) Simonson, 77, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Aug. 18, 2014, following a lengthy illness. She was born in Laona, WI, to Leona and Henry Knoll.

Darlene graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point in 1959 and taught elementary school for 30 years at Rosenow School in Fond du Lac. She married Dale Simonson on June 20, 1959, in Laona and moved to Fond du Lac in 1961.

Darlene and Dale retired in New Lisbon, WI, where she was actively involved as a volunteer for the Thrift Shop at Hess Memorial Hospital. Darlene organized a local chapter of the Red Hats and frequently enjoyed social gatherings with her friends and neighbors. Darlene recently gathered with family and friends to celebrate her 77th birthday (and 55th wedding anniversary) on July 7, 2014.

She was an avid quilter and crafter, sharing many of her quilts with friends and family, and donating several of her beautiful creations to local charities. Darlene and Dale loved to travel, and she was proud to point out they visited all 50 states and other countries abroad.

Darlene is survived by her husband, Dale, and daughter, Laurie (Paul) Krasin of Fond du Lac; and two granddaughters, Sarah of Santa Barbara, CA and Jessica of Minneapolis, MN. She is further survived by her mother-in-law, Eva Mae Simonson of New Lisbon, WI; her sister, Donna Rowan of Neenah, WI; brother, Wayne of Appleton, WI; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leona and Henry Knoll, and her father-in-law, Gordon Lee Simonson.

The Torkelson Necedah Family Funeral Home is assisting with private family arrangements. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established to support students pursuing their education at UW - Fond du Lac.