Ronald Lee Simpson, 85, of Batesville passed away on November 20, 2024. Ron was born in Batesville on December 15, 1938, the son of Clifford and Margaret (Patterson) Simpson. He married his high school sweetheart, Joyce Reidenbach, on November 27, 1957.
Being involved in Boy Scouts was a life altering experience for Ron. He was taught outdoor and leadership skills that he used throughout his life. Ron received mentorship from men he respected and made lifetime friendships. He worked at summer camp and honed the leadership and mentoring skills he displayed throughout his life.
Ron was a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps. He served his country with dedication and courage. After leaving the military, Ron learned the trade of meat cutting. He later became a co-owner of Westgate IGA with Alvin Schebler and their mentor, Gilbert Munchel. Ron ultimately owned Simpson’s IGA independently.
Ron was an involved, loving father, who provided guidance and taught many a “life lesson.” Ron provided for his family through hard work and long hours. He had a strong work ethic, which he passed on to his children through his example as well as his expectation that they work hard in the family business and beyond. Ron told his children, “If you know how to work, you will always be okay.”
Ron was an outdoorsman. He learned to hunt as a boy to help provide for his family, and he found that he had a knack for tracking and shooting. As a great storyteller, Ron would readily recount his hunting adventures, which he had both near (around Batesville) and far (Wyoming, Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan). From big game, such as elk, wild boar, antelope, bear, moose, and caribou to game as small as quail, Ron relished every moment he spent hunting in the great outdoors. Ron was a mentor to many, a young hunter, imparting his knowledge and love of the sport.
Ron was a dog lover. Over the years he owned many dogs, his constant companions while hunting or at home. Ron was a knowledgeable dog trainer, training them as hunting dogs as well as loving pets. He viewed his dogs as his co-hunters and companions.
Above and beyond all else, Ron Simpson was an exceptionally loving husband and father.
Ron is survived by his daughters: Rhonda (Joe) Shotwell, Pamela (George) Flodder, Beth (Brian Turner) Simpson; son, Todd (Lisa) Simpson; grandchildren: Clayton, Ethan, Luke, Emma, Lee, Megan, William, Hannah, and Skylar; great-grandchildren: Brayden, Bentleigh, Judah, Audrey, Maisie, Rowan, Courtney, Thomas, and Dylan; and brother, Larry Gander.
Ron was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce, and his parents, and his Daughter-In-Law Nichole (Riggs) Simpson
Visitation for family and friends will be held on Sunday, November 24, 2024 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Meyers Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held on Monday, November 25, 2024 at 11:00 am at Batesville United Methodist Church with Rev. Chris Renick officiating. Military honors will be conducted by the Batesville VFW Post #3183 and Prell-Bland American Legion Post #271 following the funeral service. Memorial contributions can be made to Margaret Mary Health Hospice by bringing to the services or mailing to Meyers Funeral Home, PO Box 202, Batesville, IN 47006.
Please feel free to leave a memory or message of comfort for Ron’s family in the online guestbook.