Richard A. “Dick” Simpson, 76, of Northumberland, a former commander of American Legion Post 44 died on Monday, but leaves a strong, enduring legacy of leadership among Valley veteran’s organizations.
He was a Valley leader in participating in and organizing recognition of veterans and their roles in serving our country through history and its various conflicts.
Simpson’s son, Sean Deiter, said his father had more than 50 years of service with the American Legion, which he joined after serving in the Naval Reserves.
“He gave everything back to his community and the veterans of it,” Deiter said. “He was very proud of Northumberland and Point Township for their rich military heritage. He always wanted to make sure that the younger generations were aware of the sacrifices that the men and women in uniform made.”
Northumberland Borough Mayor Dan Berard, a longtime acquaintance of Simpson, also worked with him on various veteran ceremonies in the borough, such as Veterans’ Day, 9/11 ceremony and July 4th ceremonies.
“He was a nice guy, a loyal friend, and I got along with him well,” Berard said. “He was a veterans’ advocate all the way. He loved the military and what they stand for. He will be missed.”
Simpson was a graduate of the last class of Northumberland High School in 1965. He served in the Navy Reserves active duty from July 20, 1965, until Sept. 19, 1967.
Simpson dedicated his life to veteran and community service including the American Legion Post No. 44, where he served several terms as commander and at least one term in all offices. He served a two-year term as district commander of the 17th District of the Pennsylvania American Legion.
Simpson was instrumental in bringing home the remains of Horace Middleton, who died in Burma during World War II.
“Middleton was killed in the jungles of Burma and his remains were not identified until 2019,” said Berard. “Dick was very instrumental in bringing him home to Milton to be properly interred. It couldn’t have happened without Dick Simpson. That’s the kind of guy he was.”
Simpson was a life member of the Northumberland Hook & Ladder Fire Co., Northumberland Fire Co. No. 1, Point Township Fire Co., Sunbury Good Intent Fire Co. and Good Will Hose Co. and served as the Sunbury Fire Department chaplain for 28 years.
He also served on the Northumberland Borough Council from 1978 to 1981. And he was recognized as Pineknotter of the Year in 2010 and was the recipient of the Sunbury Caring Award in 2017.
In his personal time, Dick enjoyed golfing and tending to his flower beds.
A visitation will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. on Dec. 28, at the First Reformed United Church of Christ, 160 Chestnut St., Sunbury, followed by a Sunbury Fire Department Honor Service. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. with Rev. Jonathan Albright officiating.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Dick’s memory may be made to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank, 3301 Wahoo Dr., Williamsport, PA 17701-9205, memo: Northumberland County Veteran’s Share or to the Sunbury Fire Department Memorial Committee, c/o: Dan Saxton, Treasurer, 1001 Edison Ave., Sunbury, PA 17801.
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