Thomas "Tom" B. Simpson

(January 3, 1955 – May 10, 2024)

Tom Simpson passed away suddenly on May 10, 2024, at the age of 69, due to a heart attack. He never did marry but he is the beloved brother of Dick, John (Linda), and David (Jeanine) Simpson; adored uncle of Daniel (Lisa), Liz (Craig), Natalie (Justin), Luke (Lindsey), Patrick, Laura (Andy), and Michael; and proud great-uncle of sixteen.  He also leaves behind very dear family member, Edwina Simpson.  He was predeceased by his brother Dick and by his parents, Bruce and Alice Simpson.

Tom worked as an information operator at Michigan Bell for thirty years.  He went the extra mile for each person who called in and was very personable with them.

He was a talented and passionate drummer, jazz and rock, specializing in asymmetrical and complicated drum patterns.  He traveled for two years with Up With People as a drummer.  He was known for bringing enthusiasm and a lot of energy to the group.  He continued to drum, creating and playing new music with friends, throughout much of his life.  In his later years, Tom brought that same energy and joy to cardio drumming in Garden City, and he provided the sound system for their meetings.

Tom loved photography and enjoyed experimenting with special effects and light painting.  He became the unofficial photographer for Up With People, posting hundreds of photos online, his site becoming the #1 worldwide collection.  As an official photographer for his niece's dance studio recitals, Tom was gifted at capturing beautiful moments in motion and color.

Tom was a professional voice actor, and as a member of SAG (Screen Actors Guild) helped vote for the nominees for the academy awards.  His voice talents were a source of delight for his nieces and nephews.

As an avid amateur magician, he was always learning new tricks and enhancing existing ones.  Tom was a lifelong learner, especially drawn to new creative expressions and always quick to enjoy and praise the accomplishments of others.

Tom had a hobby of visiting haunted houses.  He created a trademark called "Ziopotis" that rated haunted houses, had a help phone line, and was nationally recognized.  For several years he set up an elaborate light and sound display in his front yard at Halloween, well before the current trend.  Tom's displays were inspired by his love of entertaining and integrating with his neighbors, and they attracted busloads of children.

Tom had a zest for life that was fueled by his relationship with Jesus.  He was engaging and encouraging to everyone he encountered.  In his younger years he enjoyed downhill skiing, tennis, and swimming.  Throughout his life, he treasured family gatherings, and he valued his friendships, often bringing one or several friends to dinner with the family.  Tom had a wonderful custom of bringing food and gifts to his friends during holidays.  His joyful presence among us will be greatly missed.

There will be a memorial service for Tom Saturday, May 25th, at Howe Peterson Funeral Home in Dearborn.  There will be a gathering at 10 am followed by a service at 11 am.  A luncheon will be provided immediately following at Leon's restaurant, 23830 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn.