James "Jim" W. Simpson

James “Jim” Waldo Simpson, age 81, of Topeka, passed away April 18, 2021 at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka.  Jim was born December 31, 1939 in Topeka the son of Robert and Katherine “Minnie” (Jeffers) Simpson.  Jim graduated from Seaman High School in 1959.  Jim married Donna Kabriel in 1959.  From this union they had three children, Ray, Daniel and Cara.  Jim and Donna lived in Topeka and divorced in 1970.  He married Carolyn (Lemons) Engroff December 9, 1971.  From this union Jim became a father to Kim, Traci, Lisa and Alan.  She preceded him in death March 26, 2021.  Jim and Carolyn enjoyed many activities as a family of seven.  They enjoyed square dancing and were members of the Swinging Squares in Topeka in the 1980’s.  Jim worked various jobs such as Gage Bowl North until he became employed at Laird Noller Ford in Topeka as the parts manager and was employed for over 35 years, until his retirement.  He was known to many as never having to look up a part; he knew every part number by memory and came to know many people over the 35-year span.  Even in retirement, Jim still managed to stay busy.  He continued to work part-time for Laird Noller transporting vehicles to other dealerships, and when he was not working, he enjoyed tinkering around his yard and visiting with friends and neighbors.  Jim enjoyed life and he enjoyed people.  He never knew a stranger.  One of Jim’s greatest joys was to have his children, family and friends at his house, sitting in the yard visiting, which occurred every Sunday when the weather allowed.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn; parents, Robert and Minnie Simpson; a brother, Elmer Simpson; a son, Daniel Simpson and a granddaughter, Rachel Zabokrsky.  He is survived by two sons, Ray (Roberta) Simpson and Peter “Alan” Simpson; four daughters, Cara (Ed) Sargeant, Kim (Alan) Weis, Traci (Curt) Raab and Lisa (Tim) Godfrey; 11 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; four brothers, Bobby, Dick, Larry and Scott; a sister, Patty Diederich, as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Graveside services will be Friday, April 23, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at the Grantville Cemetery.  Family will greet friends from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Thursday at the Davidson Funeral Home.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Davidson Funeral Home to assist with funeral expenses.  davidsonfuneral.com