Donald M. Simmons, age 100, of Blair, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 11, 2022 in his home surrounded by his family. Known around Blair as "Grandpa Don," he loved his family and community.

Don was born December 18, 1921, in Oxford, IA to William and Bertha (Hasley) Simmons. He was a proud Marine veteran serving during World War II from 1944-1946. He often spoke of being in the Pacific on the islands of Tinian, Saipan, Kwajalein and Guam.

He married Lennice I. Stutlien on January 14, 1947 at SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Independence, WI. They were blessed with 60 wonderful years of marriage. Don and Lennice farmed together in Peterson Coulee from 1949 to 1986, upon which time they retired and moved to Blair.

Don is survived by his three children, Rebecca (David) Dalzell of North St. Paul, MN, Marie Dorn of Arcadia and Eugene (Sheila) Simmons of rural Blair; nine grandchildren, twenty-two great-grandchildren, one great-great-granddaughter, a sister, Dorothy Fries of Trenton, MO and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his wife, Lennice on March 22, 2007; four sisters, Rachel Johnston, Evelyn Hanson, Irene Weber, Lucille Sobaski; four brothers, Herbert, Earl, Joseph and William and a son-in-law, Duane Dorn.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Monday, June 20, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. in the St. Ansgar's Catholic Church in Blair. Burial with military rites conducted by the Knudtson-Mattison American Legion Post #231 will be in the Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Blair following the service. Father Jeyaseelan Yobu (Father Jey) will officiate.

Visitation will be Sunday, June 19, 2022 from 4-7 p.m. in the Jack Funeral Home in Blair where a prayer service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Friends may also call one hour prior to the service on Monday.

The Jack Funeral Home in Blair is assisting the family with arrangements.