Julia Simpson

Julia Helling Simpson was born on September 10, 1921 in Miller, South Dakota the daughter of Martin and Edna (Nelson) Helling. She attended and graduated from high school in Madison, MN in 1939. Julia was employed for four years at Klein Bank in Madison where she was the first female employee. Julia was united in marriage to Leslie Simpson at the First Lutheran Church in Madison on July 15, 1945. The couple moved to Harvey, ND, where they worked in a chicken hatchery. Four years later, they moved to Graceville, MN where they lived for thirty-seven years and owned and operated a hatchery and florist shop. After retirement they moved to Sioux Falls, SD, and later to Alexandria to be near their son Dick and family. Julia died on the couple?s 63rd wedding anniversary, July 15, 2008 at Knute Nelson Memorial Home. Julia was active in many church activities and was an avid sports fan particularly Dick?s teams and the Minnesota Twins. She enjoyed gardening, spending time with her granddaughter, and was known for her hospitality and good cooking. Julia is survived by her husband Leslie of Alexandria; son Richard (Elaine) Simpson of Brandon, MN; granddaughter Sarah Simpson of Barrett; MN and sister Mildred Foster of Sioux Falls, SD. She was preceded in death by her parents, stepfather Clarence Opedahl and brother Curtis Helling. A memorial service was held at 2PM on Friday, July 19, 2008 at the Knute Nelson Memorial Home Chapel in Alexandria with the Rev. James Oakland, officiating. Music was provided by Ellie Leohner and Wayne Huselid. Inurnment will be in the Madison Cemetery. Arrangements were with the Anderson Funeral Home. www.andersonfuneral.net