William J. Simpson

William J. “Bill” Simpson, age 69, of McCook, NE passed away on the 3rd of January 2023, at Cambridge Memorial Hospital in Cambridge, NE.

Bill was born August 4, 1953, in Sarasota, FL to parents George J. Gurman and Laura F. (Dugan) Simpson. He was the second oldest of six children.  Bill attended school in Florida and California, graduating from Helix High School in La Mesa, CA with the Class of 1971. He worked for the VA Hospital in La Jolla, CA as an Animal Care Technician while attending Grossmont College in El Cajon, CA.  Upon graduating Bill moved to Denver CO.

On November 14, 1981, Bill married the love of his life Marlanne (Sigmon) Simpson in Castle Rock, CO.  This union was blessed in bringing together four wonderful children.

Bill was gifted with a great understanding of mechanical knowledge and worked in maintenance at several places ranging from Lowry Air Force Base to schools, medical facilities, and municipalities.  In 1995 Bill moved his family to Casper WY where he was able to amplify his true working passion, which was in gardening, where he would plant up to half an acre. He was always expanding his knowledge and implementing new techniques and ideas with his crops. Bill loved sharing his gardening knowledge and was very charitable with his time and vegetables.

As a father he will be remembered for instilling a spirit of service and charity. He taught his children to take pride in their work and to develop a love for nature. When Bill wasn’t in the garden, he could be found either hunting or ice-fishing with his family. He was also a huge supporter of his sons’ athletic endeavors.

As Bill and Marla became empty nesters they relocated to just outside McCook, NE. Here he was able to continue his love of gardening and outdoor activities. Bill never knew a stranger and was quick to make lifelong friends.  Although Bill liked to come across tough and gruff, he had a big heart and loved to help others.  He fondly looked forward to the summer and holidays where he was able to welcome visiting grandchildren and family.

Bill was a member of the Federation of Historical Bottle Collectors (FOHBC). He was a life-long collector of old glass, especially Half Gallon Ball Perfect Mason Jars patented 1858.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; son in law, Erik Dunn; sister Rhonda and brother-in-law Jonathan Cannizzaro; and sister Bonnie Simpson; and brother-in-law, Lee Wattenbarger.

Those left to celebrate his life include his wife, Marla Simpson of rural McCook; daughters, Rheonna Simpson of Kansas City, MO and Tandra(Erik(d)) Dunn of Manassa, CO; sons, Marcus(Toni) Simpson of Casper, WY and William(Jess) Simpson of Williston ND; brothers, Danny(Karen) Simpson of El Cajon, CA, Robin(Dina) Simpson of Show Low, AZ; sister, Laura Wattenbarger of Sand Springs, OK; step brother Ronnie(Debbie)Birdman of Tucson, AZ; eight grandchildren and a host of extended family members and friends.

No formal services are planned at this time. Cards of condolence can reach the family at Carpenter Breland Funeral Home, c/o the Simpson Family, PO Box 476, McCook, NE 69001.