Walter R. Simpson, 78, of Warren, PA, passed away on Wednesday September 4, 2024, in Kinzua Healthcare and Rehab Center, surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on September 5, 1945, in Warren, PA, the son of the late Walter R. and Lovena Simpson. He was a graduate of Warren Area High School.
After high school, Walter served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War and served in the Army National Guard. His awards are as follows: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal with a second award, Air Force Commendation Medal, Republic of Vietnam Unit Cross of Gallantry, United States Air Force Presidential Unit Citation, U. S. Air Force Presidential Unit Citation, Army Good Conduct with 3 leaves, and the Army Commendation Medal.
He enjoyed fishing, was an avid Pittsburgh Steeler fan, Nascar fan, enjoyed DAV events with his granddaughter, Janet, walking his dog “Captain Morgan”, going to garage sales and auctions, and hanging out with family and fellow DAV brothers. Walter served as the DAV State Commander for the year of 2016. He was former Senior Vice Commander D.A.V. Warren County Chapter 75, one of the original founders of the Warren County United Veterans Council in 1982, District 7 Commander D.A.V., and an advertising manager D.A.V. Kinzua Allegheny Walleye Asso. Tournament.
From 1980 through 1990, Walter worked as a recruiter and received over 45 recruiting awards. He then worked as a Veteran Employment Representive/ CareerLink Specialist of PA CareerLink of Mercer County, then as a Car Salesman at various dealerships throughout Warren and Jamestown. He also owned and operated the Garage Sale Store for many years. Walter attended St. Joseph R. C. Church with his wife, Anna. He married Anna Valenti Simpson, on January 2, 1982, in Youngsville, PA.
In addition to his wife, Anna, Walter is survived by his loving children; Christopher Simpson and wife Sarah of Painesville, OH, and Cheree Simpson of Warren, PA; step children, Carol Fox of Cincinnati, OH, Donna Desilets of Dublin, Oh, and Donald DeVore of Warren, PA; grandchildren, Jacob, Parker, and Janet; step-grandchildren, DJ, Donnie, Alexandria; and one sister, Joy Rapp of Florence, Oregon; and many nieces, nephew, and cousins.
In addition to his parents, Walter was preceded in death by his sisters Gay Blackmore, and Merry Soricelli.
Friends may call on Tuesday September 10, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc., 304 East Street Warren, PA. Funeral services with military honors will follow at 7:00 pm in the funeral home with the Rev. Dr. Dale Haight, pastor, officiating. E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com. Those wishing to place memorials may do so through Disabled American Veterans Chapter 75, 155 Evergreen Lane Youngsville PA 16371, In C/O Robert Culbertson.
I was Walter’s friend in high school and a little while after that, although I never called him Walter. He was Happy. He was also a great guy. I’ll look forward to hanging out with him in on the other side of the veil.
Walt was a fellow vendor at Warren Antiques and Gifts and was always kind and had something nice to say. His friends there have missed him since he went into the nursing home. Happy Trails to you sweet Walt. You were loved. ❤️
Our sincere condolences to Ann and the family. We knew Walt for over 40 years from Mike’s time in the National Guard and always enjoyed our time with Walt and Ann. Our thoughts and Prayers are with all of you.
(Sorry, we are unable to attend the services)
Praying you’ll be comforted with precious memories and God’s presence to care for you in your loss. Today we raise a glass to our fellow comrade. Sorrowfully…..
It was with great sadness upon hearing of the passing of my comrade, friend and brother Walt. My wife and I have the family in prayer and ask God to give you the Peace and Comfort required at times such as this.. Walt was a good man with a reassuring smile and a big heart. Please know that he is still watching over us.
Your Bills/Trump neighbors will surely miss you, Hap! Rest in Peace in the Arms of our
Loving Lord…