Christopher Lee Simpson

Christopher Lee Simpson, 50, passed away March 24, 2024 in Phoenix, AZ where he enjoyed life with wife Jennifer and their motley crew of dogs and friends. Chris is survived by his father Lynn Simpson and his partner Janet Conlin of Avon, CT, his mother Toni Ann Simpson of Bristol, CT, twin brother Michael Simpson of Boston, MA, and in-laws Melvin and Jean Cournoyer of Sun City, AZ.

Born in Bristol, Connecticut in 1973, Chris graduated from Franklin Pierce University where he forged life-long friendships. After graduation, Chris moved to Boston and held jobs at CLS Electric and Cityside Tavern. He eventually moved west after reconnecting with long-time friend Jennifer Cournoyer, whom he married in 2011. Chris not only found love with Jen, he also fell for her dogs and together they added more to their family at regular intervals, everyone knowing his proclamations of “no more dogs!” would never hold. As demonstrated with Loki’s story, Chris would go to Herculean efforts to rescue a dog in need.

In Phoenix, Chris had a 17-year career with UPS. He was a devout Red Sox, New England Patriots, and Boston Bruins fan, and while Phoenix friends tried, they could not dissuade him from this commitment to his teams. He enjoyed Formula 1 racing, playing golf, dominating opponents at trivia, and engaging in D&D Campaigns. He explored bourbons, local wineries, and microbreweries and was always eager to try anything new and interesting. He could recite most of the dialogue of A Christmas Story and shared Jen’s obsession with Star Wars. He was a reader of noir and fantasy fiction and a firm believer that the best rock was classic rock.

Chris’ beloved late Grandparents Leon and Laura Simpson and Jim and Toni Caggianello, and his favorite uncle Keith Simpson and his wife Betty made a lasting impression on Chris’ life, instilling traditions and passing along recipes, which Chris shared with his many friends. An annual Italian Christmas feast centered around Nana’s manicotti (“manigot!”) and always included laughter about Chris’ spectacular sausage and balls. Holiday evenings ended around the fire as Chris flitted from guest to guest making sure everyone was taken care of. Chris would often say, “you always have a place at our table.” He was a big, bold personality and a welcoming, generous host; smart, quick-witted, and kind. His presence will be missed.

Donations in honor of Chris can be made to a local animal rescue.

In Arizona, join us in remembrances and lift a glass to Chris Thursday, April 11 at Arizona Stronghold Vineyards Tasting Room in Scottsdale 5:00-8:00 PM.

In Connecticut, join us at Badsons Beer Co. Taproom. Saturday, April 27 2:00-5:00 PM with remembrances starting at 3:00 PM.