Michael Simonson, 61, Minot, died Sunday, February 19, 2023 in a Minot hospital.
Michael was born February 12, 1962 in Minot, ND to Wayne and Ramona (Kossan) Simonson. He was raised and educated in Surrey, ND, and was a 1980 graduate of Surrey High School.
Michael served his country honorably in the North Dakota Army National Guard from 1984 until 1990.
Michael was united in marriage to Arlene Kohoutek on March 17, 1986 at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in Minot. They were blessed with the birth of their only son Christopher.
They made their home in Glassboro, New Jersey. Michael spent the majority of his working years in the plumbing and heating industry. He learned the trade from his brother-in-law Bob Errera. He moved on to Ruso’s Plumbing and Heating and became Nate Ruso’s right hand man for the next twenty years.
They returned to Minot in 2003. Michael went to work for Automated Maintenance Services (AMS) and even worked alongside his son for a time. He moved on to offer his experience in maintenance and janitorial services to McDonald’s, Dakota Square Mall, Trinity Hospital and the Minot Daily until his health forced him to retire in 2022.
Michael enjoyed time spent with family and friends. A good barbeque, some music and board games created many good memories over the years. Westerns and ME TV were often tuned in on the television and he and grandma hosted many ‘sleepovers’ with their granddaughter Monika Simonson.
He will be remembered for his sense of humor, gentle nature, tenacity and his ability to think logically. Michael was a tinkerer and could take apart electronics and put them back together with ease.
Michael is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Arlene; son Christopher and granddaughter Monica, all of Minot; siblings Ann Marberg, Surrey, ND, Mark (Cindy) Simonson, Creswell, OR, David Simonson, Surrey, ND, Barb (Leon) Scherr, Minot and Nancy (Mike) Mayer, Kennewick, WA along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Michael was preceded in death by his parents.
A private family gathering was held at Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.
