Jack R. Simpson, 85, of Hiawatha, died Thursday afternoon, August 4, 2016, at Highland Healthcare Center where he had been a resident since June.

He was born near Sparks, August 17, 1930, one of ten children born to Sam and Katie Simpson and had lived in the Doniphan and Brown county area all of his life.  He attended #6 country school near Sparks.  His working life was spent farming and later operating a truck garden.  Jack was well known for his garden produce and took great pride in his garden.  In later years, he enjoyed helping Highland area farmers with fall harvest.  Jack lived in Highland most of his life until moving to Hiawatha in 2010 where he continued to raise a small garden until he couldn’t walk safely.

He was married to Mary Christenson before they divorced.  He later married Betty Jean Davenport in September of 1993.  She died June 5, 2012.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; two sons: Kevin Simpson, Ronald Simpson; son in law Richard Smith; three sisters:  Nora Blanton, Nona Orcutt, Mary Blanton; two brothers:  Allen Simpson, and Edward Simpson.

Survivors include his children:  David (Sandy) Simpson of Severance, Jackie Smith, Tammy (Allen) Campbell, Donnie Simpson, all of Troy, Steve Simpson of Atchison; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.  Also surviving are three sisters:  Nina Hriencher of Wathena, Shirley Lindsey of Effingham, Geraldine Nygaard of Scott City, and a brother Dorsey Simpson of Highland.

Funeral Services are planned for 7 p.m. Tuesday, August 9, at the Community of Christ Church at Fanning, with Elder Don Harter officiating.  Cremation will follow with private inurnment to be at a later date.

Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Highland, after 10 a.m. Tuesday.  The family will meet with friends one hour prior to services at the Church.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Fanning Cemetery, sent in care of the funeral home, PO Box 33, Highland 66035.

A special message or remembrance may be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com