Donald Simpson
Dorsey |
Dateline: Dorsey
Donald E. Simpson, O.D., age 64, of Dorsey, Illinois passed away Thursday, May 28, 2015. Don was the husband of Rae A. Simpson whom he married on May 7, 1977. In addition to his wife, he is survived by sons and daughter-in-laws Matthew C. Simpson, O.D. and Brandy of St. Louis, Missouri, and Air Force Capt David R. Simpson and Amber of Dayton, Ohio.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter Carrie A. Simpson.
Don was born on August 14, 1950 in Springfield, Ohio to Walter and Faye Simpson. He grew up on a small farm with his two surviving brothers, Leon Simpson (Sandra) of Middletown, Ohio and Leroy Simpson (Carol) of Springfield, Ohio.
Dr. Simpson graduated from Indiana University School of Optometry in 1975. He began his career working for the Indian Health Service in Keams Canyon, Arizona where he provided eye care for the Navajo and Hopi tribes. Dr. Simpson spent the next 32 years providing eye care to veterans at the St. Louis VA Medical Center.
Lt Col Simpson proudly served his country in the Missouri Air National Guard as the optometrist for the 131st Fighter Wing at Lambert International Airport, which became the 131st Bomb Wing at Whiteman AFB. He additionally served as an Air Force Academy Liaison Officer. He retired in 2012.
After being swept up in the running craze of the 1970s, Don spent the next 40 years pushing the limits from the country roads of the Midwest to the Grand Canyon. Don ran 6 marathons earning a Boston Marathon qualifying time. He was an avid cyclist and enjoyed several epic bike tours and hikes with sons, Matt and Dave.
Visitation will be from 4 to 8 pm Monday, June 1, 2015 at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto, Illinois.
Funeral services will be at 9:30 am Tuesday, June 2, 2015 at the funeral home with Pastor Rosemary Captain officiating.
Graveside services will be at 11:30 am at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Operation Food Search www.operationfoodserach.org) or Greater Saint Louis Honor Flight (www.gslhonorflight.org) in Don’s name.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
