Frank Willard Simonsen

Frank Willard Simonsen, 85, returned to his heavenly home on Sunday, October 19, 2025 in Cub River, Idaho. He passed on a sunny and beautiful autumn morning surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Oslo, Norway on December 11, 1939, to Ivar Erling and Borghild Kristine Simonsen.

In July 1947, at age 7, Frank travelled from Oslo, Norway on the SS Marine Jumper, with his father and mother. The family settled in Salt Lake City and had many successes and struggles as new immigrants. The World War 2 occupation of Norway remained heavy on their hearts for many years. Frank learned the English language much on his own through television and music. His father and him sang in choir together and traveled to different events and churches to sing. He learned hard work ethics and sacrifice from a young age, working to help provide for his family home. Kristine and Frank lost Ivar suddenly when Frank was only 18. His heartache for his father was later soothed some when he grew a strong bond with his wife’s father, Elmo (Red) Mathews.

Frank married the love of his life, Carolyn Simonsen, on May 27, 1960, and was later sealed in the Logan Temple. Though later divorced, they lovingly remained devoted co-parents. His family was his greatest joy and accomplishment. He and Carolyn have four children; Kristy Lynn (Michael) Muir, Bountiful, UT; David Scott (Roberta) Simonsen, Bountiful, UT; Tammy Lee (Jay) Haacke, Providence, UT; Debbie Kay (Doug) Shaffer, Farmington, UT; Raised and loved as his own son, Randy Glenn (Teresa) Hughes, Farmington, UT. Their lives were forever touched by a born- sleeping baby girl of 6 months. They have 14 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

Frank worked as a carpenter after their marriage until retirement. He worked hard and made great efforts to provide quality work. He was an appreciator of the fineries of life including architecture, movies, music, and food. He especially enjoyed musical movies and would often have sleepovers with his grandchildren to watch musicals and have a French toast buffet breakfast. He stayed very informed about world affairs and had a deep appreciation for the freedom and promise that America offered. Frank will be remembered for his beautiful singing voice, which he shared with his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren up until the last weeks of his life. His twinkling blue eyes and contagious smile were admired by all that he encountered. he loved authentically and welcomed everyone as if they were a part of his family. He spent much of his time helping raise his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Even through retirement he lived many joyous years with Tammy and Jay (daughter and son-in-law) in Providence, UT, helping raise Takara (granddaughter), and seeing her 4 children brought home. Towards the end of his life, he lived with Mikell and Brenden (granddaughter) and their 4 children in Cub River, ID. 

In Frank’s final months he shared his overwhelming love and gratitude for Jesus Christ. The family that is survived by him is forever grateful for his loving nature and wisdom he passed on. Frank is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Egil Asbjorn Simonsen (Norway); sister, Reidun Marie Hansen (SLC, UT); daughter, 6 months still born (SLC, UT); son, David Scott Simonsen (Centerville, UT); great-granddaughter, Pearl Hope Muir (Bountiful, UT); great-grandson, Aiden Simonsen (North Salt Lake, UT).

A special thanks to the Symbii Hospice care nurses, they were a great help and comfort to our family. Also, to Brenden and Mikell and family I will forever be grateful for the love and care and respect you showed grandpa, I love you all so much!

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 15, 2025 12:30-2:30pm. The service will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 347 South 200 West Farmington, UT.

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