Ronald Ray Simpson

Ronald R. Simpson, 82, of Dike, Iowa, sadly passed away on August 1, 2023, at Park View Manor in Reinbeck, IA, surrounded by loved ones after a long battle with Alzheimer’s.

Ronald was born May 13, 1941 in Waterloo, Iowa. He married his high school sweetheart Sharon Kay Fellenzer on January 21, 1961. They were happily married for 62 years. He remained a loving husband and a devoted father and grandfather.

He attended St. Mary’s Catholic School in Waterloo, and worked as a foundry welder at John Deere for over 35 years, taking early retirement. Upon retirement, he enjoyed painting houses, working on cars with his neighbors and helping many residents with odd jobs around the community. He loved visiting with his friends and enjoying a cup or 2 of coffee at the Barn Cafe in Dike.

Ronnie had a passion for his fishing and loved taking numerous trips to Minnesota, Canada and Galena. He did also enjoy working outside, grilling, working in his yard and watching many good John Wayne movies over the years.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife Sharon Kay (Fellenzer) Simpson and children; Lori Hoff (deceased July 13, 1983); Randy (Vicki) Simpson of Illinois; Brian Simpson of Waterloo; and Lisa (Paul) Thulin of Cedar Rapids; Grandchildren; Cheyenne, Cathryn, Caden Simpson, Zach Lamb, Erin (Jacob) Salladay and Megan (Andrew) Kenny; Great- grandchildren; Kaia, Jayda Lamb, and Addison Salladay; sister Mary Kay Hockemeyer (Allen) of Hudson, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Kenneth and Rozella (Nolan) Simpson, a daughter Lori Hoff, brothers Gary & Steven Simpson, and his sister Sherry Borwig.

Ronnie will be sadly and greatly missed. He will Always hold a special place in our Hearts.

The family would like to extend thanks to all the staff at Park View Manor in Reinbeck and St. Croix Hospice for the wonderful care and kindness.

A small private memorial service will be held for immediate family at the gravesite.

Gone Away

Don't think of me as gone away,

My journey has just begun.

Life holds so many facets, Earth is only one.

Just think of me as resting

From the sorrows and the tears

In a place of warmth & comfort

Where there are no days or years.

Think how I must be wishing

That we could know today

How nothing but our sorrow can really pass away.

And think of me as living

In the hearts of those I have touched

For nothing loved is ever lost

And I was loved so much.