Bonnie Nell Simpfenderfer

Bonnie Nell Simpfenderfer, age 84, passed away early on Christmas morning, 2025—a most fitting farewell for a woman who dearly loved the Christmas season and all the joy it brought.

Bonnie was born on September 8, 1941, in Sioux City, Iowa, the firstborn child of Jacob and Janice (Knudson) Verdorn. From her parents she inherited the unmistakable twinkle in her eye, the tireless energy of an energizer bunny, and the perseverance of a bull in a china shop. During her childhood, the family moved to Aberdeen, South Dakota, where Bonnie graduated from Central High School in 1959. She went on to attend St. Mary’s School of Practical Nursing, graduating in 1960.

In January 1960, Bonnie was crowned Miss South Dakota Snow Queen. After a whirlwind year wearing the crown, she married the love of her life, Eldon Simpfenderfer, on January 15, 1961—the day after relinquishing her title. Bonnie and Eldon shared 43 years of marriage and were blessed with four children: Deann, Mike, Todd, and Becky.

Early in their marriage, Eldon joined a small family company he believed had great potential—Walmart. His career required the family to move several times. No matter where they landed, Bonnie transformed every house into a warm and loving home. Her family was always her top priority. She nurtured them with wonderful cooking and baking, unwavering encouragement, and constant reassurance that they were deeply loved.

Bonnie and Eldon’s love for children was evident throughout their lives and led them to become devoted foster parents. With open hearts and a welcoming home, they offered love, stability, and care to many children, making an impact on each life they touched. It is most fitting that 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 was the cornerstone of their marriage and the guide for their actions on earth.

Bonnie worked as a nurse until motherhood called her home full-time. During the busy years of raising young children, she enjoyed selling Avon. Once her youngest child reached junior high, Bonnie returned to nursing, where she continued to care for others until her retirement.

Bonnie found joy in simple pleasures—yardwork, gardening, planting flowers, and delighting in the birds that found sanctuary in her yard. In her later years, she lovingly rescued and cared for many senior dogs and cats. She also took great pride in decorating her home for every holiday throughout the year, creating festive and welcoming spaces for all who visited.

Bonnie lived a rich and full life. She was a loyal and devoted daughter, sister, and friend. Above all, she deeply loved and cherished her husband, her children, her grandchildren, and her pets. Bonnie was truly a gift to all who knew her and will be profoundly missed.

Bonnie is survived by her children: Deann (Tom), Mike (Ada), Todd (Monica), and Becky (John); nine grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; her beloved pup, Pepper, and cat, Jazzy; her brother, Dan Verdorn; sister-in-law, Beth verDorn; sister-friends Gini and Penny; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Jake and Janice Verdorn; her brothers, James VerDoorn and Jerry verDorn; her husband, Eldon Simpfenderfer; her fiancé, Mike Morrissey; several lifelong friends; and many beloved pets.

The love, devotion, and joy Bonnie shared so generously will remain in the hearts of everyone whose life she touched. True to her belief that “moving forward is the only option available,” she faced life with strength and unwavering grace.

This spring, her loved ones will come together to celebrate her life, raising peach margaritas and enjoying Mounds bars, just as she would have loved.

Condolences may be shared at Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com.