Todd W. Simonsen

Dad, You were a champion that made no compromise to the virtues, values and principles defined with every action you made. You loved your friends, family and teammates (coworkers) with and intensity that was unmatched by the 99.93% of humans one can come in contact with during one's existence on earth.

I was blessed to be your son and to witness the world through the eyes of your only son. I saw many men thank you for the impact you made in their life. I witnessed congregastions make way for you and your wife when selecting a pew. I observed you change the trajectory for countless young men who were defining themselves through a football and seeking guidance in life.

Through your actions, you've taught me how to love my spouse, how to care for and shape your family, and how to stand up for the virtues, values, and principles that you believe in without compromise regardless of the size of the gesture.

You were called from this planet in June 7th, 2007 and you have been remembered everyday since not for your many accomplishments but for the many opportunities to act and make a difference. I am proud to be your son and even more proud to be on a team that you volunteered your time and expertise to guide the young spirits just as you were guided by your coaches and teammates.

No matter the challenges, I never saw you compromise on your virtues, values, and principles. You granddaughter talks about you everyday.

Love Always,
Simonsen Family

I grew up with Todd on Meadow dr. He was a couple years younger than me and I would see him in the neighborhood often. I would see him mostly in the woods hunting and exploring as we both spent a lot of time in the back country of Caledonia in Capes woods. He was a good and decent guy and I truly appreciate his kindness and humanity which already defined him even at an early age. He was a good guy and we all know the good die young. RIP my dear friend....

I was at student trainer at
Iowa and remember Todd well. He always treated me with respect and I will never forget that - it speaks volumes of him as a man and I know he raised his children accordingly.

Kevin "Lurch" Fleming

Simonsen Family,

My name is Jay Kolls. I played football with Todd for three years at Case. You probably don't remember me, but I can tell you Todd was not only a terrific football player, he was a great guy and a teammate in the truest sense of the word. I am playing in the annual Case Athletic Golf Fundraiser this August in Racine. My three other friends also played football with Todd. If it is okay with the family, I would like to have golf shirts made for our foursome with Todd's name and old jersey number stitched on them. I know he would appreciate the donation the golf tournament makes every year to help fund athletics at Case. Our thoughts are with you and we sympathize with your loss. Jay Kolls.

Julie, Rachel, Scott and Kathryn,

Words are not enough to express your loss. I was one of, if not, the first recruit for Coach Simonsen at Upper Iowa. I felt that Coach was one of my biggest fans and pushed me harder than any one ever has. Many changes have occurred in my life and I frequently mention Coach Simonsen as being one of my main reasons for my success. His passion lives on in each one of you, as family members and in me as one of his former players. Please accept our positive thoughts and prayers for you and your family.

Sincerely,

"But now thus saith the LORD. . . Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee - Isaiah 43:1-2. We will miss Todd but always remember in whom he put his trust and seek His comfort in the days to come and if you are in need of a shoulder to share in your loss just remember He is there. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.

Coach, Thanks for the three years at UIU. I couldn't have played for a better coach. Sadly, we have lost two great coaches from that time. Say hello to Coach McCready.

SEE YOU UP THERE TRIANGLE WILL ALWAYS TAKE CARE OF IT IM SURE MEL TIP BLINKIE SWEET LOU DOG PACKY BORTZIE KNOW HOW SPECIAL IT WAS LOVE GONZO

Simonsen Family,
Please know that you have been and will remain in our daily prayers. Your family's strength is truly a testiment to your faith. We will continue to pray that the Lord's peace rests upon your family.

Julie, Rachel, Scott and Kathryn,

We were saddened to hear of Todd passing away this past week. I read about the death in the Cedar Rapids Gazette and passed along a note to the Wilson's in St. Louis. You kids may not remember us in West Union, Iowa but we always remembered and were quite fond of the Simonsen family. Rachel, you were three when you moved away from Hawkeye, Iowa. We came to visit you on a weekend in September. Our son Michael recalls trying on Todd's Rose Bowl jersey. Be proud Scott, and hang onto and treasure that jersey. You all have lots of friends out here in Iowa.

Love,

Doug, Jane, Michael, Marie and Steven Easton

Todd will be deeply missed....
God must have great plans for him to spare such a soul. Todd was a fighter and a wonderful man. So hard to see this happen to such a wonderful family. Deepest sympathy to julie, sis, and the kids.

Simonsen Family, My prayers & thoughts are with you at this time. This is never easy for anyone but I hope in time you find comfort & peace. Todd truly left a GREAT impression for all of us. LOVE, Abby Stark

Todd was a great father and a great man. The Simonsen's are a strong family because of Todd's leadership just as the paper reads. Todd also had a huge heart. It is hard to believe he is not with us anymore. My thoughts and prayer go out to Julie,Rachel,Scott and Kathyrn. I know this while be hard to adjust to but as we all know Todd is in heaven and free from pain. We all have great memories of a great man...RIP poppa Simonsen~Coombsy~

Kathryn- My heart hurts for you. I wish there was something more I could do for you. I will keep praying for you and your family. If you need anything I am available any day or time.
Your sister in Chirst-Heidi (Blaze leader)

Although I did not get to say good-bye to you Todd, I know you will always bring me found memories. From our days working togethter and to our bi-weekly golf outings years ago. You will be missed.

I went to school with todd he

was a great guy and will be a

angeal up in heavean with all

the other young kids from case

high school he and your family

are all in our prayers

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

Dear Simonsen Family

I am so sorry for your loss. I know you will turn to God for peace. He is always there.

Sincerely

Jacki and Sherman Mulberry