Kenneth Simonson

(From Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary)

My name is Kenneth Lloyd Simonson. I was born on December 29, 1933, in French Lake, Minnesota, to Swan Simonson and Alice Kyander. I joyfully arrived in my Heavenly home on June 19, 2025.

From a young age, I was surrounded by faith and family. My Grandma Kyander taught me about Jesus, planting a seed that would grow deep roots. My Grandma Simonson, who came from Finland and didn’t speak English, lovingly called me “Sonny,” like the sun. I brought her joy, and she brought me comfort with warm meals of flatbread, salt pork, and sorghum. Both of my grandparents and my parents preceded me in death, and I carry their memory with gratitude.







As a teenager, I left school after the ninth grade to work in the machine shop alongside my dad. It wasn’t my dream job, but I took pride in providing steady support for my family. I worked hard all my life because I believed in being dependable and taking care of those I loved.

When I was 18 years old, I married my first wife, Marlene. Later, I married my beloved Mary, and together we built a blended family of nine children. In time, we adopted two more children, and we had a baby waiting for us in Heaven. In all, God blessed us with 12 children throughout our lifetime. Don’t tell anyone but Susan was my favorite…lol.

Mary and I were joined in marriage on June 26, 1976. The Lord called me home just one week before our 49th anniversary. Mary, I want you to know how deeply I loved you. You always said I was your rock. Do you know you were mine, too? I left this world knowing that our love was strong, and that I would be waiting for her in our heavenly home. I will see you on the other side.

Our family has grown to include children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren — totaling more than 100 cherished souls. Each one holds a special place in my heart. I can’t forget to mention my sons and daughter in-laws. Thank you for loving my children so well. Each of you have added to our family and made it stronger and united.

In 1979, I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. I was baptized in Shoal Creek in Joplin, Missouri, in January 1980, alongside Mary, her sister Opal, Little Kenny, Grandma Cupp, Little Opal, and a kind man from Baxter. That day marked a new beginning in my life. I answered the call to ministry, becoming licensed in March 1984 and ordained in May 1994. Mary and I served together, pastoring two Baptist churches in the Joplin area, always striving to share the love and truth of Christ.

In 2015, Mary and I became members of Grace Baptist Church in Joplin, Missouri. We found joy in worship, service, and the fellowship of believers there. That church became a true home for us. I will forever be grateful the friendships that I've had with Pastor Brad, Pastor Fred, Bob Johnson, and many others. Thank you for caring for my family and loving them the way that you have. Mary and I appreciate your love, compassion, and leadership.

Mary, Just so you know, I’ve already embraced Brian, baby George Edward, your precious mama and daddy, and gave Opal an extra squeeze. I’ve seen Maybelle, Ovella, Joyce, Rosie, Dorothy, and Patsy, and even shook hands with Tom. Carol, Tom is well and whole. Baby Cherry and Charles are cradled in the arms of Jesus. What a reunion it has been.

To my beloved family — I love you all so much. Thank you for all your help, your love, and caring for me so well. My last days were covered in love.. I need to recognize those who stepped out of their comfort zone and loved me so well. First, Mary. You truly honored our wedding vows “in sickness and in health”. You were my favorite nurse. Rachel, thank you for sharing yourself and my great-grandchildren. I needed you all more than I shared with you. Meem-meep, Solomon! 

From the first time your little baby self called me on the phone, I loved you. Isssabella and Gloryanna, thank you for taking such good care of me and the yummy baking treats when Gigi and your gramma were darting across the country. Breanna, no one makes peanut butter cookies like you! I could count on you for my sweet tooth. Kenny, you are my son and I am well pleased. You have never let me down. Lloyd, I’m so glad we rekindled our father-son relationship. I loved our daily phone calls, I needed that. 

Finally, Chuck and Sarah, Wow! Sarah, you were always so special to me and gramma. And, you brought me a new best friend in Chuck. You both loved me and took such good care of me. I know Jesus has plans for all of your lives. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Hold onto HIS promises. My greatest hope is that you have a relationship with Jesus. If you haven’t accepted Jesus as your Savior, please talk to my Bride. She will help lead you to the Lord. I want to see you all in heaven.

Funeral services are planned for Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Grace Baptist Church of Joplin with visitation from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. prior to service. Burial will follow at Webb City Cemetery, Webb City, Missouri.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Thornhill-Dillon Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.