Robert R. Simpson

Robert Redmond Simpson, 74, of West Springfield, Massachusetts, passed away on August 31 at home, surrounded by his family. Born December 11, 1951, in Springfield, Massachusetts. Rob was a graduate of West Springfield High School and remained a lifelong resident of the town.

Rob proudly served in the United States Air Force, including a tour in Vietnam from 1971 to 1972. He carried that service with him as a lifetime member of the West Springfield VFW Post 6714 and a thirty-year member of the American Legion Post 124 in Westfield.

For nearly four decades Rob was a familiar face in the local business community as the owner of several bars and liquor stores, including Ryan's Liquor Store.

An avid golfer, Rob could most often be found on the courses of Southampton and Holyoke, chasing a good round and better company. Rob saw much of the world in recent years, including a trip to Scotland, taking in St. Andrews, home to the Simpson family's roots. He also journeyed with his sister Joanne to London, Aspen, Nantucket, and San Diego to visit his son.

Rob was predeceased by his wife, Lauren Coulson Simpson; his parents, David and Florence (Redmond) Simpson; and his brothers, David "Suitcase" Simpson and Glenn "Doc" Simpson.

He is survived by his son, Robbie Simpson and Robbie’s fiancé, Kyle Pollak, both of New York City; his sisters Joanne (Simpson) Burke and Dr. Laurie Simpson of West Springfield; his brother Bruce Simpson of Waynesville, Missouri; many beloved nieces and nephews and his most loyal and trusted companion Nellie, the Goldendoodle, who rarely left his side.

Rob, known to many as Red Eye, was also fortunate to have a wide circle of friends who filled his life with decades of laughter, golf outings, and stories that are probably best left untold in print: Andy Pihl, Jay, Doc, Deke, Dan, Cozy, JD, Albert, Cluner, Mickey, Ford, Jessie Munson, Ned, Jeff, Tom M., Bill F., Del Rey, T. Thompson, Butch, and Chappy. Whether on the course, at the Legion, or wherever mischief could be found, they were there for it and he wouldn't have had it any other way.

Calling Hours will be held on MONDAY Sept 28th from 4 to 7 PM at the CURRAN-JONES FUNERAL HOME, 109 MAIN ST., W. SPFLD. A Memorial Service will be held at the funeral home on TUESDAY Sept 29th at 11 AM. Burial will follow in Paucatuck Cemetery, Sibley Ave., in W. Spfld.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation in memory of Rob, to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10306 or to www.t2t.org