John James Simpson Jr.'s Obituary
John Simpson Jr., beloved father, grandfather, great- grandfather, brother, and friend passed away April 24,2026 after a life marked by dedication integrity and love for family he was born December 31,1941 in Durand WI to John Simpson Sr and Agnes Mae (Flick) Simpson. Oldest of twelve siblings, a role that shaped his lifelong sense of responsibility and leadership.
John graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stout with a degree in Education and began his career in teaching Industrial Arts at Webster Stanley Junior High in Oshkosh, where he impacted many with his hands-on instruction and steady encouragement. He later transitioned into a Purchasing Agent for Pluswood Oshkosh, where he was respected for his strong work etic and attention to detail.
John had a love for fastpitch softball, fishing, golf, and being a member of the chain gang for UW-Oshkosh Titan Football.
John was loved by many and will be remembered for his strength, knowledge, and commitment to those he loved and cared for.
He is survived by:
Children – Mark(Lori) Simpson, Margaret (Kurt) Thiel, Susan King, Ellen (Frank)Novotny.
Grandchildren-Rebecca(Sterling) Seizert, Nathanial Simpson, Zeke(Raquel) Thiel, Kyle(Amie) Thiel, Joshua Thiel, Taylor Simpson, Alissa(Phill) Blair, Emily Novotny, Andrew Novotny, Jared Thiel, Samantha Thiel, Ashley King. Along with 11 great-grandchildren.
John is further survived by siblings- Mary(Dan), Ellen(Galen), Charles(Anita), Paul(Louella), Dave, Nancy(Steve), Patricia, Kathleen, and Colleen.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Agnes Simpson, His son William John and brothers Micheal and Donald.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Jude Parish , St. Vincent Catholic Church, located at 1225 Oregon St in Oshkosh, on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. There will be no visitation the family will greet those in attendance immediately following the mass.
John’s legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the family who will cherish his memory always.
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?

