It is with heavy hearts we announce that Edward Simpson went home to Jesus on April 9th 2026 due to complications from lung disease.

Ed was born in Rapid City in 1954 to Harold and Ann Simpson (Zacher). He served in the US Navy from 1972-1978 and again from 1986-2001.

After his initial service, he returned to Rapid City where he met and married the love of his life, Deborah Simpson (Moore).

Ed is survived by his loving wife Debbie. His son Michael and his fiance Misty; daughter Kristina and her husband Derek. Grandchildren, Isabella, Alexander, Isaac and Eddie.

Ed is also survived by his three sisters Sue Bechard, Sharon Simpson, and Sandy Axdahl.

When returning to South Dakota in 2001 he was glad to be close to and able to care for his family here. He also began looking for ways to give back to his community, including by volunteering with Meals on Wheels in Spearfish.

In 2009 he became involved with the Northern Hills Chapter of DAV. After retirement Ed dedicated more of his time to helping the DAV to raise and distribute funds. He found immense fulfillment helping other disabled vets access as much of their benefits as possible to transform their lives for the better.

In 2021 Ed was baptized and he found a second home at Connection Church in Spearfish. He would often be found manning the doors as a greeter and offering his time and talents in any other capacity he could.

He loved being outside, whether on his motorcycle, paddleboard or boat or relaxing around a campfire.

Ed had the incredible gift of making everyone around him feel welcomed and cared for. He had a sharp wit and dry sense of humor that could bring a laugh to anyone. Ed had a quiet but compelling presence and personality that will be greatly missed by everyone who met him and especially those of us who loved him.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the Pulmonary ICU team at Monument Health Rapid City. They provided excellent care for and fought hard along with Ed to try and extend his life.

A celebration of life will take place at Connection Church located at 720 N. 12th St. Spearfish, SD. 57783, on April 17, 2026. at 9:30am.

A Inurnment committal will follow afterwards held at 11:00am, at the Black Hills National Cemetery, located at 20901 Pleasant Valley Dr. Sturgis, SD. 57785. on April 17, 2026. 

In lieu of flowers, please provide donations to Northern Hills DAV.