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Joni Lee Simon, 66, formerly of Storm Lake and Sac City, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2025, in Mt. Shasta, Calif., due to complications from cancer. Her final hours were spent surrounded by love in a sunlit room, overlooking the mountain she cherished — a comfort to her family who deeply mourn her passing, yet remain grateful for the love that embraced her throughout her life.
Joni was born on Dec. 1, 1958, in Estherville, to James and Evelyn Simon. She grew up on the family farm outside Gruver alongside her siblings Sandy, Jim and Dan. A 1977 graduate of Lincoln Central High School, Joni was a vibrant presence — involved in multiple sports, cheerleading, jazz band and proudly serving as the drum majorette of the marching band. She often spoke with fondness of her early years filled with family, friends and fun.
Joni found her work as a school secretary at Storm Lake St. Mary’s and Verona Area High School especially rewarding, as it allowed her to witness students grow and thrive. Over the course of her life, she also held office administration roles in both the financial and medical fields.
Joni was the mother of three children — Molly, Jimmy and Abby — and grandmother to Colton, Evie, Gnvy, Landon, Raylon and Addie. She enjoyed being involved in their lives and made time to attend their activities, including sports, dance recitals and 4-H shows.
An adventurous spirit, Joni loved to travel, especially to beach destinations. She embraced new hobbies with joy — from stained glass and woodworking to snowshoeing and playing the piano. A spirited pickleball player, she thrived on both the activity and the friendships it brought.
Joni’s life was defined by her optimism, warmth and generosity. She brought joy to everyone around her and will be remembered for her strength, kindness and the light she brought into the lives of others.
She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Evelyn Simon; and her son Jimmy McKenna.
She is survived by her daughters, Molly (Jim) Reitsma of Alta; and Abby (Ellen) McKenna of Green Bay, Wis.; her daughter-in-law Moriah McKenna of Sac City; grandchildren: Colton and Evie Reitsma; Gnvy McKenna; Landon, Raylan and Addie McKenna; her sister Sandy (Tim) Wolf of Verona, Wis.; brothers, Jim (Beth) Simon of Sioux Falls, S.D.; and Dan Simon of Yreka, Calif.; and multiple nieces and nephews.
A memorial celebration of Joni’s life will be held at a later date.
