E. Joan Simpson

            E. Joan Simpson, 82, of Altoona died peacefully, surrounded by her loving family early Monday morning January 2, 2023, at her residence following an extended illness.

            She was born June 12, 1940, in Warriors Mark a daughter of the late Carl L. and Mabel (Gross) Rumberger.

            She married Wayne V. Simpson September 28, 1974, at Salem Lutheran Church, Antis Township. He preceded her in death June 12, 2006.

            Surviving are four daughters, Amy S. Somers (Jeffrey W.), Kimberly A. Fornwalt (Joseph F.), Tracey L. Golden, Debra K. Fogal all of Altoona; five grandchildren, Lance M. Golden, Tori A. Somers (fiancé Caden Terchanik), Megan E. Fogal, Alex C. Somers, Ricky A. Fogal, III all of Altoona; brother Francis W. J. “Bolly” Rumberger of Antis Township; stepchildren, Bonnie L. Novack, Wayne K. Simpson, Gregory S. Simpson, and Douglas A. Simpson and their families; numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and extended family; and best friend, Barb Damiano.

            Joan was preceded in death by a sister, Barbara Steele (Robert), a brother Donald Rumberger (Joyce), and a sister-in-law, Cleona “Nooks” Rumberger.

            Mrs. Simpson was a member of the former St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Altoona.

            She was a 1958 graduate of Bellwood-Antis High School, and following, graduated from nursing school in Coatesville.

            Joan retired in 2001 as a licensed practical nurse from Pain Management at the Altoona Hospital. She began her nursing career at the Altoona Hospital and had been employed, at a later time, by Dr. Sullivan, Dr. Roesch, Dr. Kron, and in private duty with 36 years’ total service.

            She enjoyed family trips to the beach/ocean, anything Elvis, QVC, watching live animal videos on the computer, puzzles, hummingbirds, lighthouses, and “The Golden Girls”. She was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers and Penn State football fan. Joan especially enjoyed spending time with her family and grandchildren.

            She was a member of Jobel Court; Daughters of the Nile; and the Bavarian Aid Society.

            Our family would like to thank the staff of Grane Hospice for the exceptional loving care they provided our mother and grandmother in her final days to ease her transition to her greatest destination.

            Friends will be received from 3-7 p.m. Friday January 6, 2023, at Myers-Somers Funeral Home, Inc., 501 Sixth Avenue, Altoona where a funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday January 7, 2023, with Rev. Drew McCaffery officiating.

            Interment will be made at Alto Reste Park Cemetery.

            In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations please be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, in care of Jaffa Shrine, 2200 Broad Avenue, Altoona, PA 16601, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or to the Central Pennsylvania Humane Society, 1837 East Pleasant Valley Boulevard, Altoona, PA 16602.

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