Richard Sigurbjorn Simundson, 84

Richard Sigurbjorn Simundson, 84, of Hayden, Idaho, passed away Sept. 15, 2023, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was born Aug. 15, 1939, to Sam and Christine Simundson in Walhalla, N.D.

When he was a young boy, Richard’s family moved from Walhalla to Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, where he grew up on a farm in Blue Creek Bay. During these grade school years, Richard met Sally Buroker riding the school bus. The two would date throughout high school and college.

Following graduation from Coeur d’Alene High School in 1957, Richard went on to study business and forestry at the University of Idaho. His summers were spent fighting forest fires, which allowed him to pay tuition. During this time, he was also active in the Army National Guard and later the Air National Guard. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in business, he was hired as a contracting officer, kickstarting a lifelong career with the U.S. Forest Service. He was the first in his family to graduate from college.

In 1962, Richard married his high school sweetheart, Sally. Their wedding was held at Trinity Lutheran Church in Coeur d’Alene and they honeymooned at Elkin’s Resort on Priest Lake. The two also went to Seattle to attend the World’s Fair.

In 1965, while living in Libby, Mont., Richard and Sally welcomed their first daughter, Anneliese.

Four years later in 1969, while living in St. Maries, Idaho, their second daughter, Katrina Lynn was born. Eventually, they moved back to their hometown of Coeur d’Alene to raise their family. They enjoyed camping, hiking, picking huckleberries, riding motorcycles, skiing and spending time on Coeur d’Alene Lake.

In 1970, Richard started flying lessons with his renowned mother-in-law, Gladys Buroker. Over the years, he earned his flight instructor ratings for airplanes (single engine) and glider. He also earned his commercial pilot rating for airplane (single engine land), commercial airplane, glider and lighter-than-air “hot air” free balloon. In 1974, he and Gladys flew her hot air balloon at the World’s Fair Expo in Spokane.

In 2001, Richard retired after a 41-year career with the U.S. Forest Service. He and Sally bought a sailboat, spending their summer days sailing down to Harrison or dropping anchor in Beauty Bay. Their travels took them to Alaska, Canada, Hawaii, Venezuela, Trinidad/Tobago, Greece, Australia and Iceland. They also treasured spending time with their children and grandchildren, attending sporting events, school programs, skiing, riding bikes and camping.

Those who knew Richard would agree he was quiet, reserved and laid back. If you were a guest in his home the first thing he would ask is, “Do you want a beer?” He showed his love for his family through acts of kindness, whether it was changing the oil in your car or adjusting the bindings on your skis. He was always there to make sure things were safe and in proper working order. His unconditional love for his family and friends will never be forgotten and he will be dearly missed.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Christine Simundson, and his brother, Donald Simundson (Rose). He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Sally Simundson; children Anneliese Miller (Monte) and Katrina Walker (Todd); and grandchildren Cassandra Strobel (Owen), Jackson Miller, Derek and Alexander Walker.

The family would like to thank the caregivers at Wellspring Meadows and Hospice of North Idaho. Their compassionate care and support during a difficult time will always be remembered.

At Richard’s request, no memorial services will be held. Donations can be made to Hospice of North Idaho, 2290 W. Prairie Ave., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815 (www.hospiceofnorthidaho.org).

Yates Funeral Home is entrusted with final arrangements. Please visit Richard’s online memorial and sign his guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.