Robert Leigh "Bob" Simpson

Robert Leigh Simpson was born in Clay Center, Kansas, the only child of Gordon G. Simpson and Euna Mae Davis. When Robert was just three years old, his father, Gordon, was killed while serving in World War II. From that early loss, Robert's life was shaped by resilience, responsibility, and the steady love of a strong, hardworking mother.

Robert was raised by Euna Mae in Clay Center at Cedar Court, where she instilled in him a strong work ethic, common sense with money, and the belief that you earned what you had. Those lessons stayed with him for life. Euna Mae later remarried LaVerne Turner, and the family moved to Clifton, Kansas, where Robert gained not only a stepfather but a mentor.

Growing up, Bob enjoyed sports and staying busy with work. He spent countless hours helping on the family farm, working at Turner Furniture and Funeral Home, and at the Big T Café. It was there that he met his longtime "girlfriend," Patricia "Tish" Lambert-though everyone knew she was much more than that.

Bob went on to attend Kansas State University, where he joined the Acacia Fraternity and graduated with a bachelor's degree in business. On August 29, 1965, he married his sweetheart, Tish, beginning a partnership that would anchor the rest of his life for over 60 years.

Bob started his professional career in banking at Union National Bank in Manhattan then 1st State Bank in Junction City, Kansas, while also joining the Army Reserves at Fort Riley. He and Tish later moved to Hutchinson, Kansas, where Bob continued his banking career, formed lifelong friendships, and together they built their family. They were blessed with three daughters-Brooke, Beth, and Dana. Bob often joked that he always wanted to be surrounded by girls, and that God simply had a sense of humor.

Bob and Tish later moved to Ellinwood, Kansas, where Bob continued his banking career at Peoples State Bank. Never one to sit still, Bob also pursued interests beyond banking, including drilling oil wells and renovating a Victorian home, where he proudly showcased his woodworking skills. Whether restoring trim, crafting furniture, or fixing what others thought couldn't be fixed, Bob found satisfaction in working with his hands and bringing new life to old things

After a decade in central Kansas, Bob and Tish moved their family to Manhattan, Kansas, to be closer to their parents and the Turner Simpson farm. Manhattan became a home base for family, work, and the next chapter of Bob's life.

Following his retirement from banking, Bob's entrepreneurial spirit was far from finished. He pursued several business ventures; the first was Wildcat Express Trucking Company, real estate, raising steers with the Moyer Ranch, managed the Turner Simpson farms, and co owning; a tortilla company, oil wells in western Kansas and three long-term care pharmacies under Heartland Homecare. With every new endeavor, Bob committed himself fully studying the business, educating himself, working hard, and dedicating his time and energy to making each venture successful. He believed that preparation and effort mattered, and he lived that belief daily.

Beyond work, Bob embraced life with enthusiasm. He had a passion for flying planes, playing golf, building with his hands, getting to know new people and-most of all-spending time with his grandchildren: Hannah, Keller, Seth, Olivia, and Sam. Affectionately known as "GDad," he was a favorite companion on the farm, a master storyteller, and the giver of legendary head scritches. The grandchildren cherished their time with him, just as he cherished every moment with them.

Bob and Tish shared 60 years of marriage and partnership, building a life rich in love, laughter, and shared interests. Together they enjoyed renovating houses, attending auctions, antiquing, spending time at the "Little T" cabin in Eldora, Colorado, and making memories with their daughters, their families, and, of course, their beloved Westies. Their life together was marked by curiosity, hard work, and deep devotion to family-a legacy that continues through all who knew and loved them.

Throughout his life, Bob was known for his steady presence, sharp wit, and dedication to family and work. He valued loyalty, friendships, and doing things the right way. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the friendships he nurtured, and the values he quietly passed on.

Bob is survived by his wife of 60 years, Patricia (Tish) Simpson of Manhattan, KS, Daughter Brooke (Bill) Pirlot of Derby, KS, and his grandsons Seth and Samuel Pirlot, Daughter Beth Simpson of Lawrence, KS and granddaughter Hannah Harris, and Daughter Dana (Doug) Holden of Manhattan, KS and his granddaughters Keller and Olivia Holden.

Preceded in death by his parents Gordon Simpson, Euna Mae (Simpson)Turner, and LaVerne Turner, and his in-laws Gene and Vesta Lambert of Clifton, Kansas.

The family will have a visitation at the Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, Friday the 13th, from 5-8 pm and a family graveside at 1:00 pm, Sunday the 15th at the IOOF Cemetery in Clifton, Kansas. A Celebration of Life will follow on Saturday, the 21st, at 1 pm at the Prairiewood Retreat, Blue Sage Barn at 1484 Wildcat Creek Road, Manhattan, KS 66503.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shriner's Children's Hospital or Good Shepherd Hospice House, in care of Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502.