Robert Simpson

CUYAHOGA FALLS - Robert Owen Simpson, 90, of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio passed away peacefully Thursday, December 24, 2020. He was born February 3, 1930, in Akron, Ohio, son of the late Elder Lapsley Simpson and Edith Owen Simpson.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother, James Owen Simpson, and wife, Delores.

He is survived by his son, Charles R. (Ellen) Simpson of La Quinta, CA, and daughter Cynthia D. (Mark) Blaser of Cuyahoga Falls; Grandchildren, Bradley Blaser of Columbus, OH, Bonnie (James) Blaser-Garrison of Columbus, OH, Jackie Simpson of Los Angeles, CA and Bob (Leah) Simpson of Los Angeles, CA; Great-grandchildren, Hannah and Claire Blaser and Eloise Garrison; along with many nieces, nephews, family and friends.

He was a graduate of Buchtel High School in Akron, OH and the University of Akron where he met the love of his life, Delores, in the university marching band. Robert joined the Phi Kappa Tau fraternity and earned a degree in music education before serving proudly in the United States Air Force during the Korean conflict. Following his service to his country, he returned to Akron, Ohio, where he continued to work at the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. During his 42 years at Goodyear, Robert earned his Master's Degree while working as a tire designer and engineer in passenger, racing, motorcycle, truck and earthmover tires. He was credited with several patents in tire and tread design.

Robert was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather who enjoyed watching his family pursue their various interests. He went to plays, concerts, award assemblies and graduations. He spent many hours in the heat, cold, rain and snow on the sidelines of baseball, softball and soccer fields. His love of travel was shared with the entire family who spent many vacations together on the beach, cruising the Caribbean and Greek Islands and exploring Scotland from a castle overlooking the banks of Loch Lomond. Robert and his wife of 66 years also traveled with friends or made new friends on trips that took them to all 7 continents. They were excited to try new things such as snake wine in Vietnam, Yak milk in the Gobi Desert and taking a zodiac boat to land on the beach in Antarctica to walk with penguins. His passion for travel has created a legacy for his children and grandchildren.

Robert was active in his church and community. He belonged to the First United Methodist Church of Cuyahoga Falls where he enjoyed serving on many committees over the years as well as driving the church bus. He was a tireless student, volunteer and patron at the Cuyahoga Valley Art Center spending many hours setting up and hosting art shows, serving on the Board of Directors and helping to design renovations of the Art Center building.

No calling hours or service will be held at this time. Burial has taken place at the Chestnut Hill Memorial Park. The family would like to thank the caring staff at Sunrise Senior Living of Cuyahoga Falls.

Donations may be made to the United Methodist Church of Cuyahoga Falls, the Cuyahoga Valley Art Center or Kindred Hospice.

Arrangements entrusted to Clifford-Shoemaker Funeral Home and Crematory, 330-928-2147.