Obituary for William J. Simpson Jr.
William J. Simpson, Jr.
Age 72 of New Castle, DE
Passed away peacefully, with his family by his side on Monday, November 13, 2023.
Born and raised in Wilmington, DE, Bill attended Salesianum High School and was a proud alumnus of the graduating class of 1969. Bill continued his education by attending the University of Delaware, obtaining his bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. During his time at the university, Bill joined and was actively involved in the Army ROTC, eventually graduating with the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. Upon graduating, Bill continued to be an avid fan and supporter for U of D football.
Always the explorer and active learner, Bill had various interests and hobbies over the years, including surfing, cooking, and gardening. He was also a music enthusiast, playing multiple instruments in a few garage bands in his younger years. Bill's strongest passions in life were his family, his volunteer career in fire service, and scuba diving. Bill began his career in fire service at Mill Creek, and later joined the Brandywine Hundred Fire Company in 1973.During his time there, he displayed leadership and held a variety of positions as a fire line officer. In 1985, Bill joined Good Will Fire Company. Again, he worked his way through the ranks, eventually serving several terms as fire chief. Bill used his knowledge to instruct other firefighters at the Delaware State Fire School for over 40 years. Additionally, Bill was a certified master diver and instructor as a member of DAN, Diver's Alert Network. Bill enjoyed every aspect of aquatic life and had a particular knack for underwater photography. A highlight of Bill’s scuba diving experiences was partaking in a diving expedition of the Pacific Ocean with Jean Claude Cousteau.
An avid traveler, Bill was happiest on a beach, enjoying any beautiful body of water he could experience. Above all, Bill treasured his position most as loving father and PopPop. He was happiest in the company of his children and grandchildren, preparing meals for his family and being surrounded by their laughter and recollection of family stories.
Bill will be remembered most for his service to others, his gift of being a great conversationalist, and his beautiful knack for making friends wherever he went.
He is survived by his children, Kaitlyn Simpson (Peter Wessels), Austin Simpson, and William Simpson (Kristin); his grandchildren, Avery and Jack; his dear friend and brother, David Majewski, Sr; and his precious cat, Mr. Tish.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the viewing for Bill at Krienen-Griffith Funeral Home, 101 W. 6th St., New Castle, DE, on Sunday, November 19 from 6:00 pm -8:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Peter Catholic Church, 521 Harmony St., New Castle, DE, on Monday, November 20. Interment will take place privately.
In lieu of flowers the family asks contributions be made in Bill's name to the Brandywine Valley SPCA, https://bvspca.org/donate/,
Age 72 of New Castle, DE
Passed away peacefully, with his family by his side on Monday, November 13, 2023.
Born and raised in Wilmington, DE, Bill attended Salesianum High School and was a proud alumnus of the graduating class of 1969. Bill continued his education by attending the University of Delaware, obtaining his bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. During his time at the university, Bill joined and was actively involved in the Army ROTC, eventually graduating with the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. Upon graduating, Bill continued to be an avid fan and supporter for U of D football.
Always the explorer and active learner, Bill had various interests and hobbies over the years, including surfing, cooking, and gardening. He was also a music enthusiast, playing multiple instruments in a few garage bands in his younger years. Bill's strongest passions in life were his family, his volunteer career in fire service, and scuba diving. Bill began his career in fire service at Mill Creek, and later joined the Brandywine Hundred Fire Company in 1973.During his time there, he displayed leadership and held a variety of positions as a fire line officer. In 1985, Bill joined Good Will Fire Company. Again, he worked his way through the ranks, eventually serving several terms as fire chief. Bill used his knowledge to instruct other firefighters at the Delaware State Fire School for over 40 years. Additionally, Bill was a certified master diver and instructor as a member of DAN, Diver's Alert Network. Bill enjoyed every aspect of aquatic life and had a particular knack for underwater photography. A highlight of Bill’s scuba diving experiences was partaking in a diving expedition of the Pacific Ocean with Jean Claude Cousteau.
An avid traveler, Bill was happiest on a beach, enjoying any beautiful body of water he could experience. Above all, Bill treasured his position most as loving father and PopPop. He was happiest in the company of his children and grandchildren, preparing meals for his family and being surrounded by their laughter and recollection of family stories.
Bill will be remembered most for his service to others, his gift of being a great conversationalist, and his beautiful knack for making friends wherever he went.
He is survived by his children, Kaitlyn Simpson (Peter Wessels), Austin Simpson, and William Simpson (Kristin); his grandchildren, Avery and Jack; his dear friend and brother, David Majewski, Sr; and his precious cat, Mr. Tish.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend the viewing for Bill at Krienen-Griffith Funeral Home, 101 W. 6th St., New Castle, DE, on Sunday, November 19 from 6:00 pm -8:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Peter Catholic Church, 521 Harmony St., New Castle, DE, on Monday, November 20. Interment will take place privately.
In lieu of flowers the family asks contributions be made in Bill's name to the Brandywine Valley SPCA, https://bvspca.org/donate/,