[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 40 (Tuesday, March 19, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E333]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF RUSSELL SIMPSON

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MARCY KAPTUR

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, March 19, 2013

  Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker. I rise today to honor the life of Russell 
Simpson, who passed from this life on Tuesday, March 15, 2013. Russell 
Simpson had a true servant's heart and his life helped countless 
others.
  Mr. Simpson was born October 14, 1934. A lifelong Toledoan, he 
graduated from Libbey High School and served in the United States Army. 
He married his wife, Patricia, in 1958 and they began their family. He 
was a Greyhound bus driver, a career which served him well later in 
life when he served older adults as a driver for senior center 
activities and excursions.
  In 1969, the unthinkable happened and the Simpsons' four-year-old 
daughter was murdered. Their grief was compounded twelve years later 
when their nineteen-year-old son was killed during a robbery. 
Incredibly, out of these two horrific and senseless tragedies, the 
Simpsons bore fruit. In 1983, the Simpsons formed Parents of Murdered 
Children, a nationally recognized support group. Soon, parents with 
similar tragic tales had a place where they belonged and could share 
their grief with people who understood. As his daughter noted, ``He got 
through it by helping other people get through it.''
  Russell Simpson was successful in persuading the county prosecutor to 
create a victims assistance fund. He trained to facilitate face-to-face 
meetings with victims or family members and their offender. He worked 
to educate the community and law enforcement to strengthen 
communication. Most importantly, he was a calm shoulder, a kind heart, 
compassionate eyes and a strong leader to families facing the ultimate 
tragedy.
  Russell Simpson leaves a legacy of service. His selfless work will 
endure into the future. Even as he helped other families, he never lost 
sight of his own. Our condolences to his wife Patricia, his children 
Linda Lou and David, and his grandchildren. May the light which shone 
for others guide you as well, and in your memories may you find peace.

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