James Simpson

James Robert Simpson, 92, (he was known as either Bob or Jim during his life) went to be with our Lord on Friday, August 16, 2013 at Pioneer Ridge Care Center in Lawrence, KS. 

He was born July 10, 1921 in Abilene, Kansas, the son of Lottie Anna Anderson Simpson and John Wesley Simpson.  Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his three brothers, John, Raymond, and Kenneth Simpson.

Bob graduated from Chapman High School in Chapman, Kansas.  Bob married Mary Virginia Klamm on June 10, 1943, while serving in the Army during World War II.  Bob was a radar technician in the Pacific Theatre during World War II.  He had the most interesting stories to tell about fixing the radar in a camouflaged island mountain in the Pacific, while monitoring enemy ships and planes.
 
Bob and Mary were married for 56 years (she preceded him in death in 1999), and have three sons who survive them, Robert (Linda), Ronald (Jennifer), and Roger Simpson.  Bob has six grandchildren (Wendi Brillhart, Michael Simpson, Tabitha Mudd, James D. Simpson, Kevin Simpson, and Carol Van Buskirk).  Bob leaves seven great-grandchildren (Trey, Shayla and Mylie Brillhart, Eli and Leah Simpson, and Molly and Simon Mudd).  He was also preceded in death by his long time dance partner and beloved companion, Areta Meyer.

Bob was truly a member of the “greatest generation”.  He worked for over 30 years at Kansas Power and Light in Lawrence, Kansas as a Maintenance Supervisor.  For 35 years starting in 1953, Bob was very active in the Boy Scouts of America, both while his boys were in the organization, and long after.  He received many honors from the organization (Silver Beaver Award, Scouting Appreciation Award, National Distinguished Award, Order of the Arrow, and District Award of Merit).  He was very proud and humble about his service to the Boy Scouts of America.

He was a member of the Free Methodist Church in Lawrence, Kansas.  Bob was also active with The Gideons International, and the Cattlemen’s Association.  Bob had a life well-lived and will be missed by many.

Services will be held at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, August 22, 2013.  Entombment will follow at Memorial Park Mausoleum.  Family will greet friends on Wednesday from 6 – 8 p.m. at the Mortuary.

The family suggests memorials in his name to The Gideons International and may be sent in care of the mortuary.