Elizabeth Lee "Betsy" Simonson

Our precious Betsy slept away peacefully on February 4, 2025, at her beloved and familiar home. It was the place she longed for while in the hospital during her illness, and her final wish was fulfilled. Elizabeth Lee Simonson was born to Ronald and Melba (Salminen) Simonson on September 3, 1976 in Edina, MN. The nickname Betsy seemed fitting and she quickly became the very adored special sister, capturing the hearts of her many siblings and all who knew her. Betsy attended the Louise Whitbeck Fraser School, and graduated from Wayzata High School with the Class of 1999. Betsy was full of joy, and also very spunky and determined. She loved the idea of being independent, holding several jobs including a position at Wuollet Bakery and several through CHOICE, Inc. Davanni's in Edina was her favorite, where she managed the salad bar and bussed tables. After moving with her family to Buffalo, she began working at Functional Industries doing a variety of jobs.
Her dream of being independent came true when her family helped establish Building Hope in Monticello. Betsy flourished in her new home, forming many lasting friendships with both the residents and caregivers. Her time at Building Hope was filled with love, laughter and community. Betsy's bright personality shone through in everything she did. She loved singing and writing. Her ability to perform skits was amazing. She could be feisty and stubborn, and her humorous retorts were quite endearing. She was known for carrying around stickers to give to everyone she met because, to Betsy, everyone was a friend.
She is survived by her parents Ron and Melba Simonson and 14 siblings: Scott (Paula) Simonson of Lake Stevens WA, Eric (Jean) Simonson of Deer Park WA, Melissa (Dick) Loukusa of Monroe WA, Michael (Joleen) Simonson of Buffalo MN, Curtis (Wendy) Simonson of Cokato MN, Michele (Kerry) Ojalehto of Snohomish WA, Diana (Craig) Kumpula of Buffalo MN, Kathryn (Peter) Hillukka of Buffalo MN, Mary (Tony) Martin of Deer Park WA, Stephen (Maija-Liisa) of Rockford MN, Sarah (Greg) Wuollet of Elk River MN, Rebecca Wuollet of Deer Park WA, Peter (Traci) of Buffalo MN and Anna (Jason) Hillukka of Friday Harbor WA; 136 nieces and nephews; 124 great nieces and nephews and, according to Betsy, 1000's of cousins; relatives and countless friends.
Funeral service will be held Monday, February 10, 2025 at 12:00 PM with visitation beginning two hours prior at 10:00 AM all at the Monticello Laestadian Church: 1860 County Rd 39 NE, Monticello, MN 55362. Interment at the Cokato Finnish Cemetery in Cokato, MN.
Arrangements have been entrusted to The Peterson Chapel of Buffalo. Online condolences for the family may be directed to www.thepetersonchapel.com