Walter Neel Simpson

Walter Neel Simpson

February 2, 1943 – November 23, 2021

Walter was born in Renton, Washington, the second of five children of Neel and Rita Simpson.

In 1955, when he was twelve years old, his family moved to Roseburg, Oregon. He attended school there and then moved to Portland. After training with Goodwill Industries he had a long career, working at Winter Products and Continental Brass as a laborer.

In spite of being born with disabilities, Walt was determined to have a job and be independent. He was very courageous in moving by himself from a small town where his family lived to a city. He learned the bus system and was never afraid to ask for help and he was able to make his way wherever he needed to go.

His living situations were pretty sketchy sometimes and it was wonderful when he was able to move to Holgate House and have his own apartment. He had some help there with dinners and with housekeeping, and he greatly enjoyed the autonomy of having his own space.

When his care needs increased, what a great blessing that he was able to move to Cornerstone Care Option—such a well-managed care center where respect for each resident was paramount. He really found a home there.

Walt’s Christian faith was very important to him and he always found a church to be a part of. When he found Powellhurst Baptist Church, he found a place where he was loved and really belonged.

He was predeceased by his parents, Neel Simpson and Rita Simpson, and by his nephews Todd Adrian Briggs, Todd Simpson and his great-nephew Otis Benedict Case.

He is survived by his brother Steve of El Paso, Texas, his sisters Jeannie Simpson of Roseburg, Beth Simpson of Anchorage, Alaska, Bonnie Zollner of Silverton, Oregon, and brother-in-law Dave Zollner of Silverton. Survivors also include numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, and too many friends to count.

In Walt’s honor we will be wearing Trailblazer colors to his memorial service at Powellhurst Baptist Church at SE 112th and Powell on Saturday, December 11th at 2pm.

Viewing at Rose City Funeral Home from 10am -1pm on that day.