Laura Frances Shogren Simanton

MALTA - Laura Frances Shogren Simanton, 93, of Malta, died peacefully on April 27th, 2019 at the Northern Montana Care Center with her daughter Robin by her side.

The family will receive friends at 7:30 p.m., Wednesday at the Kirkwood Memorial Chapel. Memorial services will be 11 a.m., Thursday, May 2, at the Kirkwood Memorial Chapel. Interment of her cremated remains will be at a later date in the Malta Cemetery. Condolences for the family may be left atwww.kirkwoodfuneralhome.com.

Laura was born on July 9, 1925, in Quiring Township, Beltrami County, Minn., to Frances Louise Hotston and Charles Shogren. She joined her older brother, Bill in the family home. Laura attended school in Quiring and Kelliher, graduating salutatorian from Kelliher High School in 1943. She worked in defense plants during the summer months. In 1947, Laura graduated from Bemidji State Teachers College. She taught school for one year in Black Duck, Minn., before venturing to Montana. Laura met Robert J. Simanton, Jr. and they were married on April 30, 1949. They would have celebrated their 70th anniversary this year. Together they raised five children on the family farm 15 miles east of Malta. In 1974 Bob and Laura moved into town and Laura worked part-time as a substitute teacher. She continued to pursue her love of painting, making a beautiful home, tending her flowers, cooking, baking, and spending time with her family. Bob & Laura's home was always open to friends and family where one could find a strong cup of coffee, homemade cookies and cakes, and delightful conversation.

Laura is survived by her children Robin Losleben (John Smith), Steve (Wendy), Spencer (Jody), Scott (Gina), Bob (Mona), 12 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Bob, her parents, and brother Bill.