On September 23, 2024, Evelyn June Cartwright Simonson, a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away surrounded by family at the age of 79 in Great Falls, MT. Born on June 12, 1945, in Plentywood, Montana, to Arnold and Clara (Haug) Hendrickson, Evelyn was one of 13 children raised on a family farm south of Dagmar. She attended country school through the 8th grade and graduated from Grenora High School in 1963.

That summer, Evelyn married John Cartwright of Dagmar, and together they embarked on a life of farming and ranching in the Dagmar community. Their 40-year marriage was filled with love and hard work until John’s passing in 2003. Evelyn was a pioneer of farm-to-table living before it became a trend and found immense joy in her garden and the daily rhythms of farm life. Above all, she cherished her role as a mother to their three daughters, instilling in them a strong work ethic and a life of grace and humility.

One of her most treasured roles was as a grandmother. Evelyn delighted in teaching her daughters and grandchildren how to make traditional Scandinavian treats, especially lefse and peppernuts. Grandma Ev made every visit special, filling their time together with laughter and fun. Her support at sporting events, summer bible camps, graduations, and school programs was truly treasured.

In 2007, Evelyn found love again with Roy Simonson, enjoying 14 wonderful years together until his passing. They cherished their time dancing at the Moose and attending the Norsk Hostfest.

Evelyn spent most of her life in the Dagmar community, where she built lasting friendships with her neighbors. Later, she moved to Williston, embracing new friendships at Golden Estates and cherishing being closer to family. She loved reminiscing with her siblings about their childhood, playing cards, celebrating birthdays, and enjoying their annual Christmas Eve gatherings. In her final year, she resided in memory care in Great Falls, where she enjoyed the company of Tammy, Jenny and their families.

A faithful member of Volmer Lutheran Church, Evelyn actively participated in WELCA Ladies Aid, as well as Craft Club, and Music Mothers. She also played a key role in compiling community information for the Sheridan’s Daybreak II committee.

Evelyn is survived by her three daughters: Tammy (Logan) Good of Great Falls, MT; Wendy (Mark) Slotsve of Williston, ND; and Jenny (Tyler) Will of Great Falls, MT; along with nine grandchildren: Hannah, Madeline, Coleman, and Alec Good; Benson and Gabe Slotsve; and Gavin, Allison, and Regan Will. She is also survived by her siblings: Howard Hendrickson, Orville Hendrickson, Tony (Dory) Hendrickson, Mary Ann LePage, Dorothy (David) Blomberg, Sylvia Haven, Pearl (Ernie) Haven, and Judy (Bob) Bergeron, as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Cartwright; her parents, Arnold and Clara Hendrickson; stepmother Alice Hendrickson; her second husband, Roy Simonson; and siblings Alice Erickson, Bernice Haugen, and infant brothers Arlyn and Gene Hendrickson.

Memorial Contribution