Jay Victor Simonson, 89, of Austin died Saturday, Nov. 8, 2008, at Our House Memory Care.
He was born Nov. 13, 1918, in Hartland, to Joseph and Clara Simonson. He served as a cook in World War II, stationed throughout Africa and Italy. Jay married Olive Hanson on May 12, 1946, in Hayward. Jay owned and operated Simonson Decorating in Austin for many years. Jay enjoyed retirement in Yuma, Ariz., and summers in Minnesota. He was a member of the American Legion, Moose, Elks, Eagles, and VFW. He enjoyed cooking, playing cards, and camping with his family in his motor home. Jay especially enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren
Jay was preceded in death by his parents, four sisters and four brothers.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday at Grace Lutheran Church with the Rev. Jeffrey Forbes officiating. Military honors will be by Austin Post #91, American Legion and Olaf B. Damm Post 1216 VFW. Visitation will be at Grace Lutheran Church on Saturday from 10:30 to 11 a.m.  
Jay is survived by his wife of 62 years: Olive Simonson, Austin; children:  Barry (Earlene) Simonson, Austin, Sharon (James) Mead, Park Rapids, Barbara (Alan) Cook, Glenville, Shirley (James) Johnson, Blooming Prairie, and Bradley (Lisa) Simonson, Owatonna; 13 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; sister Amelia Bakke, Albert Lea; and nieces and nephews.