Laurence Ray Simpson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Laurence "Larry" Ray Simpson on February 25th, 2023. Larry passed away in Seattle, Washington surrounded by the love of family and friends. He was 75 years old.

Larry was born June 26th, 1947 to parents JT "Bud" and Carol (Williams) Simpson. He grew up in the Windermere neighborhood of Seattle, Washington where he attended Roosevelt High School. He graduated from the University of Washington, participating in track and field, Naval ROTC and was a member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity. He married his high school sweetheart Marilyn (Winkelmann) and they raised two boys in their family home in Kenmore, Washington during 32 years of marriage.

Larry was a Naval Aviator, his most memorable time being stationed with his VR-24 squadron in Naples, Italy. Following his service in the Navy, he worked as a pilot for United Airlines, retiring as Captain of the Boeing 747. Over the years he also worked as a professional photographer, home builder, seaplane pilot, yacht captain, and entrepreneur selling computer systems.

Larry excelled in athletics with an exceptional track time in the mile, the University of Washington record for the Steeplechase, and numerous handball championships. Throughout his life Larry enjoyed traveling, boating, flying, photography, running, and attending the sporting events of his grandkids.

Larry is survived by his loving family: sons Taylor Davis Simpson (wife Kavi) of California, Thorin Williams Simpson (wife Vicki) of Seattle; grandchildren Staser Simpson, Elias Simpson, Lucille Simpson, Asa Simpson and Jesse Simpson; siblings Tom Simpson (wife Lisa) of California, C. J. Simpson of Seattle, Ror Simpson (wife Lori) of Seattle, and Lael Anne Wheeler (husband Jackson) of Hawaii; along with a large extended family.