David Simonson
At David’s request there will be no formal service. There will be a gathering to celebrate his 95th birthday on Thursday, October 16th, @ 12:00 at Hovander Homestead Park. All of his friends and acquaintances are welcome.
David Simonson, passed away peacefully at the age of 94 on October 1, 2025. He was born to Charles Lincoln and Hazel (Hawk) Simonson on October 16, 1930, in Bellingham, WA.
David graduated from Meridian High School. He served in the United States Air Force and received his BA from Western Washington University and MA from the University of Washington. David was a Blaine School District teacher for 31 years - retiring in 1987. He was an active member of Whatcom County School Retirees Association.
In 1968, he took the WSU Master Gardener training and for many years was actively involved with the Master Gardener Demonstration Garden at Hovander Homestead Park.
He is survived by his sister: Phyllis (Ken) Weber; cousin: Marilyn (Gerry) Peterson; nephews: Roger (Vicki) Hawley and Curtis (Joy) Hawley; nieces: Martha (Steve) Wendover, Jan Witter, Nancy (Chris Lieb) Witter, Lori (Paul) Murphy, and Sara (Wade) Spreckelmeyer.
David asked that to remember him, you perform deeds of kindness to others.
The family would like to thank Whatcom Hospice for their wonderful support and care.
Memories
From Marilyn Peterson
Proud to be part of this family.
From Marla Rodgers
David was a very kind soul with a positive, easy-going spirit. Always teaching even when he retired! Rest easy David you've definitely earned your wings.
From Jan Witter
He was one of the best, definitely one of the best in this country. And who knew you could grow artichokes here? (From 1974/5)
From Debbie Pereira
Rest in Peace my friend.
You will be missed
From Linda Burns
"David asked that to remember him, you perform deeds of kindness to others."
What more could we do than pay his kindness forward? David was a model of kindness and giving. Carry on....
From Lisa marie berg
Dave was my favorite teacher and always the first week of classes we would get him to talk about where he traveled over the summer... he will be dearly missed
From Jeff Dodson
It is difficult to put into words the vastness and depth of Dave’s influence on us as Master Gardeners. The world is a much lesser place without Dave in it.
From Bob Barker
Always patient, always helpful, always a smile and a kind word. And well aware of the humorous aspects of life. David was a wonderful man; his wish for his friends reflects it
From Ann Walter
One of my favorite teachers at Blaine HS. He endured me and my classmates with humor and professionalism. When ever I would see him gardening at Hovander Park, I would remind him that he was probably the reason I decided to become a nurse…..he would agree that it was probably the best course for me to take. He will be missed!!
From Jayme Swansen
David was one of my teachers in Blaine. I have always remember him fondly. Sending much love to the family.
From Luana Schneider
From weeding at Hovander to grafting apple trees and transplanting tomatoes to caring deeply for the earth and mankind, David's breadth of knowledge, sincerity, enthusiasm and humor will be treasured memories. I know I am not alone in missing him deeply. Rest easy, my friend.
From Susan Walsh St Clair
I took all of the office classes from David and later we visited often when I worked for Reg Campin. He was always intelligent, kind and compassionate. The sort of teacher/individual who made you want to do your best. One of BHS's treasures.
From Peg Nathon
A true gentleman in the best sense of the word . A class act. An honor to have known him. Always loved to see his tall silhouette coming across the field for a visit! Rest well David!
From Shirley and Ji…
Our sincerest condolences to David’s family. David was a kind and generous person who touched the lives of many and made this world a better place. It is not surprising that he asked that to remember him, we perform deeds of kindness to others. Heaven has gained a truly beautiful soul.
From Kathy Wright
As a brand new 22 year old teacher at BHS I couldn't have been luckier than to have David take me under his protective wing. What a man! He is my favorite human on the planet. His care, advice, humor, travel stories, fun, kindness, gentlemanly ways, all wrapped up in this handsome, svelte body and he picked me to guide along. Oh how missed he will be. Heaven has gotten an angel from earth if ever there was one. Kindness is what we need and this is what we will continue in your name, David.
From Pat Edwards
At Hovander Homestead Park, David Simonson was a leader who was both innovative and inspirational, the best kind of mentor that anyone could hope to have. His memory is a blessing.
From Adria Audette Hay
Absolutely one of the best teachers at Blaine. He created an atmosphere in the classroom that brought his students along willingly to do their best. I can speak for myself and others that we adored, admired, and respected this very professional educator.
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