Orris Burnell Simonson was born in Sisseton. He served with the military police in Louisville, KY, at age 16. He brought his family to Rapid City when he was 28.

Orris was a simple man and liked just about everything except vegetables, weeds and Fords. His love for Hank Williams Sr., steak, fishing and Dodge vehicles was never ending.

He did the best he could and made the most out of what he had and although to some, that might not have been much, to his family it was everything!

He will always be remembered as a “stubborn ol’ Norwegian.” Along with the precious memories he’s left behind, his love will be treasured until the end of time.

He is survived by his wife, Phyllis Tracy Simonson; his children, Tami Simonson, Lisa Barry, Michelle Simonson, Julie Wilder, Jon Simonson, Melissa Simonson, Jamie Morris; his sister, Luella George; brothers, Aiden, Burdell, Rod and Kervin Simonson.

Bottom of He was preceded in death by his parents, Beatrice Benson Simonson and Ole Simonson; and his eldest son, Scott Simonson.

May his journey walk him through fields of flowers, skies of sunshine and an eternity of luxuries that life did not provide. He was through and through, a TRUE VIKING.