Ralph Simpson

Ralph Simpson, 88, of Pender, Nebraska passed away Sunday, August 4, 2013 at the Pender Community Hospital in Pender, NE. Memorial services will be held Thursday, August 8, 2013 at 10:30 a.m. at the United Church of Pender; with Pastor Steven Breazier officiating. Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 7, from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Munderloh – Smith Funeral Home in Pender, NE. Burial will be at a later date at L’Eau Qui Court Cemetery in Niobrara, NE. Memorials are suggested to the United Church in Pender or Presbyterian Church of Niobrara. Arrangements are under the direction of Munderloh – Smith Funeral Home in Pender, NE. Ralph was born on January 27, 1925 in Niobrara, Nebraska, the son of Chester and Albertina (Haugen) Simpson. Before graduating from Niobrara High School, Ralph joined the United States Navy, serving as an Electricians Mate 2nd Class serving on the U.S.S. Bunker Hill. He loved his country and his church. Ralph was united in marriage to Amelia M. Jacot on June 11, 1946 in Yankton, South Dakota. To this union two children were born: Edward and Beverly. He was a great fisherman and camped with his family often. Ralph was proud that he was able to attend Wayne State College for a year. He worked as an electrician for many years, having the GE dealership in Pender. In Arizona, he won many medals and awards playing in horseshoe tournaments. He was very involved in Pender Chamber, the VFW where he served as commander, and the United Methodist Church where he sang in the choir. Ralph was a care giver for his wife Amelia for many years until her death on July 22, 2002. He had homes in Niobrara, Pender and Green Valley, AZ. Ralph loved to play the accordion for the residents at Prairie Breeze and Legacy Gardens in Pender. He was an avid fan of Nebraska Football and enjoyed the bowl games. Most of all he loved and cherished his family. Ralph is survived by his children Edward (Grace) Simpson of South Fork, CO and Beverly (Dennis) Frese of Pender, NE, five grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. He is also survived by a special companion Anna Lee Schultz of Green Valley, AZ and a brother Melvin (Alice) Simpson of Kansas City, MO. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Amelia, and his brothers and sisters: Alice Clark, Clara Nielsen, Leda Rosacker, Floyd Simpson, Erma Fitch and Cecil Simpson.