Robert "Bob" Simpson

08/29/1932 - 01/12/2026

Robert "Bob" D. Simpson, age 93, of Beaver Island, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 12, 2026, in Petoskey.
Bob was born in Nelson Township, Michigan on August 29th, 1932. The son of Rufus and Dorothy (Huckleberry) Simpson. Bob proudly served in the United States Army and after his service he earned his master's degree in biological science from Central Michigan University. During his academic journey, Bob was a part of the inaugural class for the National Science Foundation program, under the guidance of Dr. Hohn. This experience included traveling to the CMU Biological Station on Beaver Island, where Bob discovered his deep appreciation for island life. And ultimately, he and his family settled and built a cottage together on BI.
As a lifelong educator, Bob was a beloved teacher in multiple school systems. During his time spent at Douglas MacArthur High School in Saginaw, MI, Bob gained national recognition for his campaign "What's your Solution to Pollution?". Even though he gained this recognition, he always said it was his students who deserved it most. He also served as the Chippawa Captain for the CMU Biological Station on Beaver Island, where he shared his passion for the island, science, and nature with countless students. In the 1980's Bob spent 8 years as a Charter Captain on The White Sand, where clients enjoyed him for his outgoing personality, knowledge, and love of Tawas Bay.
After meeting his wife Sandy, they spent nearly 20 years at The Villages in Florida. During this time, they made lifelong friends, entertained family, and refined his golf game.
Bob was also an avid fisherman, hunter and artist. He will be remembered for his captivating stories, wise advice, and gentle heart.
Bob is survived by his wife, Sandra Simpson; his sister, Mildred Batte of Arizona; his son, Brian (Terre) Yeiter of Tennessee; grandchildren Paulina and Jillian Simpson of Spring Lake, MI; Josh (Chelsea) Yeiter of Charlevoix, MI; Brooke (Sebastian) Heintz of Belding, MI; and great-grandchildren Paul, Harper, Hazel, Harmony, and Wyatt. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews in Arizona, Hawaii, and Michigan.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Rufus and Dorothy Simpson; his first wife, Paula Simpson; his son, Paul; his daughter, Robin; and his sister, Mary Menhart.
A celebration of life will be held in the fall of 2026. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Beaver Island CMU Biological Station or a charity of your choice, or simply paint a rock and share it with others.
Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.