Paul Simpson

Paul A. Simpson, 92, of Overland Park, passed away May 29th, 2018. He was born September 19, 1925 in Canton, Illinois, and upon graduation from high school enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served in the South Pacific during World War II aboard the destroyer U.S.S. Howarth.

After the war Paul attended Grinnell College for one year before leaving to pursue a career in sales, and after a succession of jobs found his niche as an independent manufacturer’s representative for women’s wear. He traveled and lived in the middle of his shifting territories to limit his time away from home, moving from Denver to Minneapolis, Minneapolis to Des Moines, and finally from Des Moines to Kansas City. Although his work required enough overnight stays to earn the nickname “Suitcase,” Paul somehow managed to spend enough quality time with his wife and kids that they never felt cheated by his absence.

Paul was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Beverly; parents Everett and Matilda (Anderson) Simpson; brothers Fred, Dale, Charlie and Bill, and sister, Bessie.

He is survived by daughters Heidi (Steve) and Rhondi, and son, Brad. He leaves behind five granddaughters, Elizabeth (Jeff), Sarah (Ron), Megan, Greta and Kirra. He also leaves behind five great grandchildren, Tyler, Tia, Abigail, Sophia and Sydney, and many friends and family.

Affable and outgoing, Paul will be remembered for his optimistic outlook, playful sense of humor, and penchant for telling stories, especially ones that made others laugh. He also possessed a strong work ethic that prompted him to “retire from retirement” and become a part-time courier for Viracor-IBT Laboratories well into his eighties. Paul enjoyed golf and was Co-president of Senior leagues at Iron Horse, Deer Creek and Sycamore Ridge. He also liked to read and was fond of music, especially Big Band and Swing, and songs from all genres featuring beautiful arrangements.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, June 23rd, at Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church, 9300 Nall Avenue, Overland Park, KS 66207 (913) 642-9100, with visitation at the church following the service. Private family internment in Buffalo, MN to follow at a later date.

Although their contributions were brief, the family would like to thank Interim HealthCare, Senior Helpers and Crossroads Hospice for the attention Paul received at home during his last days.

Memorial contributions can be made to Rolling Hills Presbyterian Church at the address shown above.