Gregory Dean Simons, 66, passed away on January 23, 2026, at Covenant Living of Golden Valley hospice. Greg was born in San Diego, CA on September 2, 1959, and grew up in Eden Prairie, MN. After graduation, he received his BA degree in accounting from UW Eau Claire and his MBA from St. Thomas University. Greg's experience grew, eventually bringing him to his position of CFO of Edge Wireless, from which he retired in 2008.

Greg not only discovered a love for travel in retirement but also re-discovered his high school friend Kathy Opheim. This time they fell in love and eventually married, enjoying many travel adventures together over the years that took them to Italy, Paris, Barcelona, Germany, Austria, and Hungary; and on trips that included activities such as cycling and snorkeling.

Kathy infected Greg with her love of Golden Retrievers, leading them to become fosters for RAGOM, a Golden rescue. Greg especially enjoyed taking their dog Rocky on “home visits” for the rescue. The two of them would go to meet families wanting to adopt a particular RAGOM dog. Those visits were very gratifying to Greg, who loved helping families find their perfect canine companion.

Kathy also reminded Greg of the fun of being on the water in Minnesota. They made many happy memories together and with friends and family at their Pelican Lake condo and on their boat, where some of Greg’s best smiles were captured.

Greg is predeceased by his parents, Glenn and Audrey Simons. He is survived by his loving wife Kathy Opheim, son Geoff (Missy) Simons, daughter Erin (Charlie) Leibold, five grandchildren, and one great-grandson; as well as his uncle Earl Simons and many cousins.

A celebration of Greg’s life will be held on February 27th at The Cremation Society of Minnesota, Edina location. Visitation will begin at 3pm, service at 4pm. There will be time to gather and share memories afterwards