Seymour Simpson of Delray Beach FL, formerly of Norwalk died peacefully at his home in Florida on August 8th at the age of 100. He was the loving husband of Rose (Marenus) Simpson and his longtime partner Bertha Smith, both who preceded him. He was the son of the late Samuel and Ethel (Siegel) formerly of New Haven, CT.
Seymour was a proud veteran of World War II. He served with the 8th Army Air Corp, 91st Bomb Group (H), 323rd Bomb Squadron. He was a radio operator, waist gunner and armorer. He flew multiple missions over Germany.
When he returned after the war, he and Rose settled in Norwalk in 1946. There they opened a small houseware and hardware store on Cedar Street. The little store, Seymour’s Housewares grew, eventually moving to Connecticut Avenue and renamed Seymour’s Paint and Hardware Inc. and expanded many times.
Seymour was very active in the life of his community. He was a member of the Masons, St. John’s Lodge #6, and Boynton Beach Lodge #236. He was recently recognized for 60 years of service and was also a Shriner.
He was a long time member of the Independent Party of Norwalk where he served many terms as Treasurer. In 1975 he was appointed Fire Commissioner by Mayor Jennie F. Cave. He enjoyed observing the brave Firefighters do their job and admired their courage.
Seymour was very active in religious life. He served as trustee and later President of Zera Kodesh Congregation. He also served as a trustee of Congregation Beth EL.
He was a founding member of the Neptune Boat Club Inc. and enjoyed fishing on Long Island Sound. He was an avid bowler, having sponsored a team through his hardware store.
He recently enjoyed the celebration of his 100th birthday surrounded by his sons, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, nieces and nephews and his many friends at his home in Florida. He was thrilled at having his family with him to celebrate.
Seymour leaves two sons, Samuel Simpson and his wife Marjorie of Wilton and Michael D. Simpson of Hartford, his two grandchildren whom he adored, Betsy Rose Simpson and Benjamin Simpson. In addition, he is survived by many nieces and nephews as well as multiple great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews.
Services will be held at Collin’s Funeral Home on East Avenue Sunday August 13th at 11:30 AM with internment following at Beth El Cemetery. Shiva, a period of mourning, will be observed on Sunday and Monday at the Norwalk Inn and Conference Center, East Avenue. The family requests in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to United Synagogues of Greater Hartford, Congregation Beth El or Shriners Children’s Hospital of Springfield Massachusetts.