Robert "Rob" William Simpson

Robert was affectionately known by family as, "Rob" and by many friends as, "Bob."

Robert was born on August 8, 1944 in Coatesville, Pennsylvania to the late William and Catharine (McLaughlin) Simpson. He grew up in the Packanack Lake community in Wayne, New Jersey before moving to Pines Lake as an adult.

Rob had many interests in life, and boldly pursued his passions. He earned an undergraduate degree in Communication Arts from the University Notre Dame and a Master’s degree in Education from Montclair University. He pursued his career as a Wayne Township middle school music teacher for 25 years where he made his mark instilling the love of music in his students. His spare time included student outdoor trips rafting, hiking, skiing, and camping. He was a foster parent to several children and a mentor to many.

His passion for the outdoors and the environment led him to volunteer as a trail caretaker for the High Mountain Park Preserve in Wayne, New Jersey as well as serving on the township environmental commission. Robert also had a talent for photography, and spent several years capturing special moments on film as a wedding photographer and a lifetime of photographing nature. For his enjoyment, he loved to play the piano, sing, and write church music. Robert was involved in the St. Mary’s Church Choir in Pompton Lakes, both as a member and later as choir director.

Robert loved being outdoors, hiking, walking, and freely enjoying the peace and tranquility of nature. Always interested in improving the world community, he actively participated in many social, environmental, and charitable causes and organizations. In his retirement, he started a small business advising and promoting solar power installations. It can be said that Robert walked to the beat of his own drum, and lived his life with his heart and without hesitation.

Robert is survived by his brother Richard (Brenda) Simpson of Sparta, NJ; his sister Kathleen (James) Klein of Jacksonville Beach, FL; his sister Suzanne (Jerome) Hill of Jacksonville, FL; his nieces Shannon (Frank), Brooke (Michael), Katie (Michael), and Cassandra (Carl); his nephews Richard (Kandace), Matthew (Emily), and Keith (Jessica); and 14 great-nieces and great-nephews. He also leaves behind his foster son Mark (Cory Lynn) Nordyke and their children Thaddeus and Gabriella of Kunkletown, PA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in remembrance of Robert may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011