Ronn Simpson Obituary (1948

Ronald Kent Simpson, the son of Shirley (Paulger) and Clair Simpson, was born December 14, 1948 at Red Cloud, Nebraska. Ronn weighed only three pounds at birth and was in the hospital for three mnonths. After coming home for a week, he developed a cold and was readmitted to the hospital where he was accidently burned and remained there for an additional three months. He departed this life on Saturday, May 26, 2012 at his home in Guide Rock. Ronn received his formal education at the Guide Rock schools, graduating with the class of 1967. He then entered the United States Army and served his country, including a tour in Vietnam. Following his discharge he worked with the Nebraska Public Power District for two years. He returned to Guide Rock and was employed at Ely's Elevator until he went to work for Vogler farms, where he remained for several years. Ronn later worked for Glenn Ohmstede at the grocery store as a meat cutter and then owned and operated Friday's Restaurant & Bar at Guide Rock. For the past 18 years, he was employed as a press operator with Dutton-Lainson Company in Hastings. In 1977, he was married to Regina Edgar and this union was blessed with a son, Brian Kent. They later divorced, but remained lifelong friends. He was active in the United Methodist Church, the Guide Rock American Legion and V.F.W., and he had been an alumni officer for many years. He served on the cemetery board and always volunteered his time and talents to any Guide Rock community event when needed or called upon. Ronn never met anyone he didn't consider a friend and he would give his all to help anyone in need. He could be found mowing what seemed like half the town and was the handyman who was called upon by many. In 2002, Ronn was diagnosed with cancer of the throat and went through treatments in Omaha. He recovered, but continued to battle his health from that point on. Ronn loved working with his hands woodworking and doing various crafts. He was creative, inventive and enthusiatic to share his work. He possessed a deep love and interest in Indian history and read everything he could find on the subject. He collected many Indian artifacts and never passed on going to an Indian museum. His greatest love in life was his son, Brian. His love grew to include Jamey Hamburger, when he came into Brian's life. For many years he took care of his mother, Shirley. He checked on her several times each day and eventually took charge of the cooking and cleaning so she could remain at home. Preceding him in death were his father and a special nephew, Ben Schutte. Left to treasure his memory are his son, Brian Simpson and Jamey Hamburger of Trumbull, Nebraska; his mother, Shirley Simpson; sisters, Claire Williams and husband Gary and Nancy Schutte and husband Ron; brothers Ken Simpson and wife Joy and Dean Simpson and wife Anita; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Funeral services were held Friday, 10:00 a.m., June 1, 2012 at the United Methodist Church in Guide Rock with the Rev. Joel Rathbun officiating. Interment with military graveside honors was at the Guide Rock Cemetery. A memorial fund has been established by the family. Williams Funeral Home 241 West 4th Avenue Red Cloud, Nebraska 68970 Phone: 402-746-2500 Email: williamsfuneralhomes@yahoo.com