Lori Lee Simons (Martinson) died in her home on August 13 2015 in Gold Canyon, AZ due to her long battle with brain cancer. She was 56.
Lori was born, July 22, 1959 in Bismarck, ND to E.W. and Ardella Martinson. The family travelled the Western part of the United States and Lori attended schools in Bismarck, North Dakota, Great Bend, Kansas, Fairbanks, Alaska, and graduated from Clover Park High School in Tacoma, Washington. Lori attended Linfield College in McMinnville, Oregon and the University of Washington where she graduated with a Bachelor’s in Pharmacy. While attending college at the University of Washington, Lori worked at JC Penney at Alderwood Mall and met her future husband Bruce Simons. They shared a special bond over “wide shoes”.
Lori was a dedicated mother and wife. She enjoyed baking, gardening, creating glass beads, and spending time with her family. Her passion for Bible Study Fellowship and her church community translated into her everyday life. Lori was dedicated to Jesus Christ and spreading his love to every person she touched. One of her favorite scriptures was 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 “Be joyful always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus”. Lori lived her life exemplifying this scripture. Her joyous spirit was an example for all she interacted with. Though of few words, when she spoke—everyone listened.
Lori had a great love of dogs. Her special friend Daisy Muggle Puggle shared a love of cookies and snuggling. She has three grand dogs that she spent many hours giving delicate kisses too: Snoop, Lola and Bailey. Long walks and extra yummies were always on the agenda when Lori was with them.
Lori and Bruce had a special bond. They called each other “peas in a pod”. Between road trips, Dairy Queen treats, and cruises, the two of them spent many fantastic days together. Their love for each other translated into so many different aspects of their lives. The memories of Lori’s tender heart, warm giggle, and affection will be greatly missed but not forgotten.
Lori had a knack for creating special gifts for her friends and family. She created glass crosses and necklaces for children in Africa (sent through her friend Pat Rees on her mission trip). Everyone in Lori’s life looked forward to the holidays. She would create delicious trays of cookies to share with friends and family. There were never any cookies left after the tray was passed around.
Lori is survived by the love of her life and husband, Bruce Simons; her children, Carlina Stahnke and Ross Simons; her parents, E.W. and Ardella Martinson; son-in-law, Chris Stahnke; father and mother-in-law, Gene and Rachel Simons; and a special aunt, Almora Borner.
Lori will be buried in a private ceremony on August 21, 2015. A memorial will take place on August 21, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. at Grace Church in Mesa, AZ. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Lori’s Life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Grace Church (8701 E Brown Rd, Mesa AZ 85207) or St Luke’s Lutheran Church (515 s 312TH St, Federal Way, WA 98003).
Isaiah 40:31 But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.