Dr. Herb C. Simonson

Dr. Herb C. Simonson, a dedicated physician and esteemed community servant, passed away on February 22, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona, at the age of 94. Born on November 6, 1930, in Mt. Morris, Wisconsin, Dr. Simonson lived a life characterized by hard work, compassion, and commitment to his patients and community.

Dr. Simonson pursued his education with remarkable determination, earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin in 1952, followed by an M.D. from the same institution in 1960. He completed his internship at Good Samaritan Hospital in Phoenix in 1961. Driven by a passion for medicine, he began his career in family practice, serving the community from 1961 to 1978, before taking up the role of Emergency Room physician at Maryvale Samaritan Hospital from 1978 until 1988.

Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Simonson made notable contributions to medicine, including achieving the title of Chief of Staff at Maryvale Samaritan Hospital and chairing various committees at the Maricopa County Medical Society. He was board certified in Family Practice and maintained his recertification, while also being board eligible with the American College of Emergency Medicine, where he served as President for the Arizona Chapter. In addition, he was a member of a physician/lawyer committee tasked with reviewing malpractice claims.

His legacy extends beyond his professional accomplishments; Dr. Simonson was deeply committed to charitable work. In 1969, he founded the Maryvale Medical Scholarship Committee and served as its President until 1971. He co-founded and held the presidency of "Esperanca," a Brazilian Medical Missionary Project in 1970. Furthermore, he volunteered at St. Vincent de Paul's free clinic from 1978 to 1980, offered free camp physicals for children, organized free community immunization events, and mentored students at Southwestern University Medical School.

In addition to his exceptional professional and charitable contributions, Dr. Simonson displayed an unwavering commitment to the well-being of others. He provided medical care to poor migrant field workers without charge, demonstrating a steadfast dedication to serving all individuals, regardless of race, religion, or social status. His pride in his work stemmed from his journey through education without financial debt, which he accomplished by working throughout all levels of his education, a testament to his industrious spirit and loyalty to those around him.

Dr. Simonson's legacy is cherished by his wife, Patricia F. Simonson, who will carry forward his memory. He is also survived by his 4 children, 6 grandchildren, great grandchildren and his sister Janet. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ole Raymond Simonson and Carol Bernadine Thorstad, who nurtured his values and aspirations.

A Memorial Service will be held in his honor on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 12:00 PM at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home located at 4800 E. Indian School Rd., Phoenix, AZ. This will be followed by a graveside service at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 2033 N. 48th St., in Phoenix at 1:30 PM.

Dr. Herb C. Simonson will be remembered as a devoted physician, a compassionate mentor, and a loyal friend, embodying the highest ideals of the medical profession and the spirit of service. His contributions to the field of medicine and the community will leave a lasting impact on all those he served.