ST. JOSEPH – John Wesley Simpson Sr., 75, passed away on Saturday (July 9, 2016) at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana.
He was born on Nov. 22, 1940, in Champaign to Walter and Lela (Norman) Simpson. John married Patricia Ann Kelm on July 13, 1962, in Champaign.
John is survived by his wife; children, Angella Anderson Simpson and John (Brenda) Simpson Jr.; grandchildren, Joshua and Eric Anderson; and sister, Joyce Deakin.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jim Norman and George Simpson; sisters, June Bateman, JoAnne Gossett and Mary Margaret Wheat; and his beloved dog, Goldie.
After graduating from Champaign High School, John enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served from 1958 until 1962. He was stationed on the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid and earned a Sailor of the Month award.
He met the love of his life while on leave during his enlistment, while visiting the family of one of his best friends, who would then become his brother-in-law. He said he fell head-over-heels in love with Patty the first time he saw her.
After leaving the Navy, he worked for Illinois Bell as a PBX installer, working on telephone systems in people's homes and in businesses, and would retire after many changes by the company as it finally became AT&T.
Dad was passionate about fishing, hunting and watching NASCAR. He and mom spent six months of the year in Okeechobee, Fla., where they spent days and even nights on the lake fishing and spent time with friends.
Most importantly, dad loved his family most, and loved spending time with his family, and laughter usually followed him wherever he went as he told stories of his childhood antics. He could tell any story and have the room in stitches.
A celebration of John's life will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 14, at Sunset Funeral Home, 710 N. Neil St., Champaign. Graveside committal with military rites will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made in John's name to the Champaign County Humane Society, Salt & Light, or an organization of the donor's choice.
Please join his family in sharing memories, photos and videos on his tribute wall atwww.sunsetfuneralhome.com.
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