Robert Charles "Rob" Simpson
Robert Charles "Rob" Simpson
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Rob was born in 1948 in Ontario, Canada, the son of the late Kingsley and Melba Simpson. He earned his Master of Science from the University of Michigan. He retired after working for over 40 years as a Professor of Natural Resources, Biology, and Nature Photography at Laurel Ridge Community College, formerly Lord Fairfax Community College. Rob was a member of the Audubon Society, Shenandoah National Park Association, Outdoor Writers Association of America, Virginia Outdoor Writers Association, Mason-Dixon Outdoor Writers Association, North American Nature Photography Association, and North American Mycological Association. Along with his wife, Rob was known nationwide for writing Nature and Wildflower Guides on the National Parks.
Rob is survived by his wife, Ann; children, James K. Simpson, Michelle Prodywus, Lisa Prodywus (Wesley), Jeremiah Fletcher (Mitzi), Jessie Needham and Aaron Fletcher; grandchildren, Julieann and Emma Dobbs, Georgia and Gracie Needham, Natalie and Jacob Digirolamo, his sisters-in-law Susan Balun and Cynthia Armstrong (Glen), and "like family" Helen and Malcolm McLaren of Chatham, Ontario.
Family members will hold a private celebration of life.
Memorial donations may be made to the Laurel Ridge Foundation Science Fund in memory of Rob Simpson: www.laurelridge.edu/donatenow
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
5 Entries
Mark Taylor
Yesterday
My deepest condolences to Ann and the rest of the family. Rob was one of the best. Always smiling. Always friendly. Always helpful. I will miss him and am glad I knew him.
Jim and Pat Poffenberger
October 20, 2025
A teacher, a mentor and always a friend, Rob will be missed.
Bill zgraham
October 20, 2025
One of my favorite people ever from OWAA, along with Ann. A wonderful generous person who made life more fun for all. A bright light for this world.
My condolences, thoughts and prayers are with Ann and family.
Bill Graham
Alex Newhart
October 18, 2025
Rob was a mentor, teacher and friend to many of us in the nature photography community. He taught us so much and encouraged us to become better photographers and naturalists. He will be greatly missed.
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Mara Meisel
October 18, 2025
Rick & I are devasted by the sudden passing of our friend, Rob. We send our deepest condolences to Ann and the rest of Rob' family. The world has lost a fabulous naturalist, teacher, photographer and all-around good man. He was always positive, loved people and the natural world. There was always a sparkle in his eye that reflected his enthusiasm for just being in such an amazing world. He will be greatly missed.
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