Cheryl Simundson

Cheryl Lynn Simundson, 79, died November 17th, 2025, after a 2 year long battle with ALS. She was surrounded by friends, family, and her beloved pets as she peacefully slept and left this earth. Cheryl was born on June 16th, 1946, to Grace and Leo Durkin. She grew up in Grand Forks and attended Central High School. She then went on to graduate from the University of North Dakota with a degree in elementary education.

Cheryl taught in the GF Public School system for over 30 years. She loved teaching, and always enjoyed running into former students. She enjoyed learning and took classes at UND for fun for many years. Education was extremely important to her, and one of her favorite quotes by Ruth Bader Ginsberg resonates when thinking about her. “ I would like to be remembered as someone who used whatever talent she had to do her work to the very best of her ability.” Cheryl lived her life that way.

Anyone that knew Cheryl knew that she loved her politics. She spent many years discussing and debating with her close friends during her scheduled coffee groups. Along with coffee, she loved quilting. She and a group of her friends could be found looking for new fabrics or patterns quite often. Her friends meant the world to her and she was grateful for the years she was able to know each and every one of them. One of Cheryl’s favorite pastimes was to watch politics, especially Rachel Maddow, who once said, “If you’re someone people count on, particularly in difficult moments, that’s a sign of a life lived honorably.” Cheryl lived her life that way, and was always there for anyone that needed something. Our hope is that her kindness, terrific sense of humor, courage and supportive nature stays alive in every persons’ heart that she ever touched. Every one of us is a version of ourselves because she was a part of our lives, and although she will be missed our memories will keep her alive.

She is survived by her daughter Julie Simundson; grandchildren Vivian, Lilian, and Ethan Peterson; and nephews Shane, Tyler and Erik Simundson.

She was preceded in death by her husband Roger Simundson; son James Simundson; niece Kate (Simundson) Sherritt; brothers Mike and Larry Durkin; parents Grace and Leo Durkin; and many other relatives.

Memorial Services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 1, 2025 in University Lutheran Church, Grand Forks. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 p.m. with a 7:00 p.m. Prayer Service on Sunday, November 30, 2025 in Amundson Funeral Home, Grand Forks. Interment will be in Memorial Park North Cemetery.