Russ Simpson

1962 - 2017

Perry "Russ" Simpson, loving son, husband, father, brother, papa, uncle, cousin and friend to many, left this life Feb. 5, 2017, at home from complications following open-heart surgery.

Russ was born April 9, 1962, in Idaho Falls to Harold and Shirley Simpson. Russ grew up and attended school in Shelley. After graduation, he joined the U.S. Army and served various places throughout his four years of service.

He met his soulmate and boss, Dawn Simpson, in February 1985. On July 5, 1986, Russ married Dawn Simpson and her two children, Danielle and Scott Doherty. On Oct. 27, 1987, they welcomed their beautiful daughter, Darby Simpson. On May 22, 1992, they welcomed their son, Dillon.

He remained in Idaho his whole life and was an avid outdoorsman. Russ was proud of his extensive gun collection and enjoyed shooting with his kids. It wasn't unusual to see Russ fishing on the South Fork, even if it meant missing family pictures. He was the master of the river and would out fish anyone that had the privilege of joining him. There was no river too shallow or narrow for him to run a boat through, and he could pull a fish out of a puddle. Russ enjoyed every moment he had outdoors, even mowing the lawn with his grandson.

Russ' love for fishing turned into a lifelong dream of owning his own fishing and boat business, River Rat Marine. He started out of a garage and turned it into a multimillion-dollar company. There was nothing he couldn't do; he wasn't just the jack of all trades, Russ was the master of all. He put his whole heart into this business and met many amazing friends during this time.

Russ impacted so many people's lives, even with a simple conversation. He would do anything for anyone no matter how big or small, but he enjoyed giving them a hard time first. He had an amazing sense of humor and gave everyone a nickname, even if they didn't know it. Whether it was spending time with his wife, kids and grandkids or being the center of attention at the family functions, family was always the most important thing in his life.

He will be sorely missed by all his friends and family and the impact that he has made on the lives of anyone that he met will live forever. Russ, you will be forever in our hearts. Until we meet again, enjoy the fishing up there.

He is survived by his parents, Harold and Shirley (Joe) Simpson; his wife, Dawn Simpson; brother, Rob (Teresa); sisters, Terri and Kelly Gardner (Keith), of Blackfoot; his children, Danielle Morishita (Cory) and Scott Doherty (Liz), both of Florida, Darby Simpson, of Rigby, and Dillon Simpson (Emylee), of Florida; and five grandchildren, Bryson, Heyden, Halle, Brinlee and Sawyer. He was survived by many nieces and nephews.

His service will be at 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10, at Watersprings Church, 4250 S. 25th E., Idaho Falls, Idaho. Military rites will be performed by American Legion, David B. Bleak Post 93, assisted by the Idaho Honor Guard. Family and friends will meet one hour prior to services.

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalder Funeral Home. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.nalderfuneralhome.com.