Robert Tyrone Simpson

March 31, 1945 – December 18, 2012

Local business owner, infamous car buff, and collector Tye Simpson passed away suddenly due to complications of pneumonia on December 18, 2012. He was surrounded by his family.

Tye was 2nd of 7 children born to John and Dora (Strait) Simpson in Delta, Colorado. At an early age Tye ventured off to join the Navy serving aboard the aircraft carrier USS Forrestall. In 1968 Southern California became his home. This is where he met his wife Nina Sador Simpson. Married on August 28, 1971 in Downey, CA this is where their adventure began. Tye owned and operated a shipyard in Newport Beach, CA. Together over the course of 8 years they built a 70 ft Staysail Schooner named “Mariah” which they lived aboard for many years.

Tye was an auto mechanic by trade but he was an accomplished shipbuilder, finish carpenter, all around “can do” kind of guy. Moving back to Grand Junction in 1989 Tye and his brother Link started Simpson Brothers Garage. Retiring in 2003 he happily and briefly took on the role of “Mr. Mom”. 2 years later he started Hot Rod Garage and started the project of building his dream home and garage.

Tye was an avid car collector which brought him much joy and pleasure. He was a member of the VMCCA Car Club serving as president 2 terms, and a member of the Rambling Relics Car Club. Tye’s most proud accomplishment was his children and grandchildren.

Visiting over 40 countries and 48 US states he and his family have travelled the world. Nothing brought him more pleasure than to be with his family on an adventure.

Survivors include his wife of 41 years, Nina Simpson, daughter Stephanie Mawdsley of Grand Junction, daughter Jenifer (Mike) Nelson of Zurich Switzerland, daughter Katherine Simpson of Denver, son Aaron Simpson of Grand Junction, twin grandsons Jack and Owen, granddaughter Maya, brother Lincoln (Marva) Simpson of Whitewater, brother John JJ (Judy) Simpson of Whitewater, sister Ann Alderman of Whitewater, sister Bonnie (Lloyd) Wiggins of Moab, brother Gary (Lynette) Simpson of Blanding, brother Danny (Susan) Simpson of Moab.

Memorial Celebration shall be held on Saturday, December 22, 2012 at 4pm at Martin Mortuary. Weather permitting, drive an old car.