Robert Gale Simpkins, 90, passed away peacefully at his home in Reno, Nevada on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, following a short illness.  He was preceded in death in 2021 by his beloved wife of 67 years, Katharina (Kitty) Simpkins who he missed terribly.  He often told the story of the first time he saw her in a crosswalk in Trier, Germany while serving in the Air Force. He then convinced Kitty and her sisters to go dancing with him and his buddies.  We believe she was waiting for him in that big crosswalk in the sky, where they're now dancing together once again.

Robert was born on January 1, 1934, in Mulkeytown, Illinois.  He was the youngest of six children of Jacob and Pearl (Spegal) Simpkins.  Robert loved growing up in the small town in Southern Illinois and often told stories of his many exploits of skipping school to go fishing with his brother Earl, shooting his slingshot and swimming in any water hole they came upon.

Robert was formerly a longtime resident of Lompoc following his honorable discharge from the Air Force. He was the owner of Simpkins Security Services and retired from ITT Federal Electric at Vandenberg AFB.

Robert was happiest when surrounded by family, going on road trips, spending time with friends and with his beloved cat, Candi, on his lap.  He is survived by five children, eight grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. He will be put to eternal rest beside Kitty at the Lompoc Evergreen Cemetery.

Robert's service will be held at the Starbuck-Lind Funeral Home in Lompoc on Saturday, September 14th at 10AM. His family welcomes all who knew him to attend.