Grace Louise (Lulie/Lou) Gale Simpson entered eternal life on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at the age of 95. She was a devoted wife for 64 years to her beloved husband, Robert (Bob) Glenn Simpson, and a loving and exceptional mother to Gail (Robert) Wolf, Robert (Patricia), Mark (Margaret), Peter (Jean), Mary, James, and Eileen (James) Gould. Lou was a proud grandmother of 12, and great-grandmother to 8, including her most recent great-granddaughter, Lulie, whom she was thrilled to meet in-person. She was a loving sister to Patricia, Fred, and David Gale, and an affectionate aunt to numerous nieces and nephews.
Lou was born in Oak Park, Illinois on May 28, 1928. She attended Trinity High School in River Forest, and later attended Rosary College. While in college, she met her “darling” Bob, and the two were married on November 5, 1949. She and Bob made their lives together in Oak Park raising their seven children. In 1972, when a job opportunity opened for Bob, the family moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Lou was a woman of tremendous faith, that she exhibited daily in her warm, welcoming demeanor, which she extended to everyone she knew, as well as those she just met. Her intelligence, keen wit, and practical wisdom drew people to her. Lou always promised, and delivered, her prayers for each and every request that came her way. She had a larger-than-life, charitable nature, volunteering at, and donating to, numerous organizations including the Sweet House Foundation, Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, and the Killgoar Education Foundation.
Lou’s deep love of Jesus Christ motivated and informed all of her actions. Like St. Paul, toward the end of her life she yearned for the Lord’s appearance. We are consoled in our loss knowing that, after her long and honorable life, the Lord has received her home to be with Him and her dearly missed, Bob.
The Simpson family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Angie, Lou’s friend, and caregiver, as well as to Bethany, from Faith Hospice.
In lieu of flowers remembrances can be made in the form of contributions to the Killgoar Education Foundation.
Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11am on Thursday, January 18, 2024, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 1935 Plymouth Ave. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506 with visitation one hour prior. Rev. Troy Nevins presiding. Interment Woodlawn Cemetery.
Additionally, in late May, a memorial Mass will be offered for Lou at her first Parish, Ascension Catholic Church in Oak Park, Illinois.
14 Responses
Mary and you family, I am so sorry for the loss of your wonderful Mother. I pray that you may find some comfort during your grieving hours to know she is in Gods care. She touched me so many times when I first met her and recently in our letters . I know your family has many wonderful memories of your loving mother.
Lulie you will be missed by many.
My thoughts are with all her children at this time.
It was with deep sadness that I learned of the passing of my Godmother. Aunt Lulie was a dear soul. I was always proud to be her Godson. Along with Uncle Frank Muriello I had the best Godparents I could ever wish for. My memories of Lulie are all wonderful, esp of our lonh ago summer vacations in Crandon and Ludington.
Rest in Peace Aunt Lulie
Tim
Lou said prayers for me when i was very ill, and just knowing that, gave me joy and resolve. I will always be grateful to know such a kind and thoughtful friend. Now I will pray for her, to be at peace.
Eileen, Jim, Jack and Robert, and the entire Simpson family:
Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Lou lived a long and fulfilling life, and her memory will forever be cherished. Sending you all love and strength.
My condolences to you and your family Gail. May she rest in peace.
Mom was a remarkable and loving wife and Mom .
May she rest in peace. My condolences to her family and friends.
Deepest condolences to all the family.
Such a powerful and profound portal for us when our parents cross over. Sorrow abounds but it has a sweetness from recognition of appreciation and love flowing from others as well as ourselves. Thinking of you as you transition to life without her.
Lou was a breath of fresh air at IHM and at Beacon Hill. Her smile, welcoming words and interest in each person was charming. I admire her faithfulness and the peace she found as her life journey drew near completion. A model for us all on how to age gracefully by putting ourselves in God’s loving care. Well done, my good and faithful servant!
Lou was a friend from both IHM parish and here at Beacon Hill.
Her deep faith, her warm smile, and her friendly demeanor will be missed by all of us who knew her. Rest in peace, dear one. Mary Passinault
Rest in peace dear Lou. I will always remember how sweet Lou was as she welcomed the Wolf family to hers. To the entire Simpson family, I send heartfelt condolences.
Thank you Aunt Lulie for being there for me on my Wedding day. You stood in for my mom whom had already died.. it was a very special moment in my life that I will forever cherish. I love you.
Meg