VANDELL E. SIMPSON JR.

Vandell E. Simpson, Jr., 89, of Hiram, passed away on April 1, 2017 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on March 30, 1928 in Warren, Ohio to Vandell E. and Garnet (McLeod) Simpson, Sr.

His most important things in life were faith, family and his beloved wife, Norma. Van was formerly a Trustee at Mantua Center Christian Church, a fireman in Windham, and Assistant Chief for Hiram Volunteer Fire Department. Van was a supervisor at The Ravenna Arsenal during the Korean War and he was the biggest Crestwood Red Devil football fan EVER! Van cherished his time as the starting center on the championship Windham High School 6 man football team before graduating in 1946.

Van is survived by his children, Vicki (Gil) Krohn of Mantua, Van (Patricia) Simpson of Wooster, Diane Sparacio of Boardman and Mark (Sandy) Simpson of Hiram; sister, Phyllis Ellenberger of Hiram and 14 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his beloved Norma, parents, and his brothers Robert, Charles and David.

Memorial Visitation will be held on Friday, April 7, 2017 from 1-2 PM at Mallory-DeHaven-Carlson Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 8382 Center St., Garrettsville, Ohio 44231. Memorial Service to follow at 2 PM with Pastor Chad Delaney officiating. Private graveside service at Fairview Cemetery.