Masako “Marty” Simpson

Masako “Marty” Simpson, age 83, of Tecumseh, passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2016 at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ypsilanti, Mich. She was born on January 20, 1933 in Tokyo, Japan, the daughter of the late Ichiro and Rin Ito. Masako met and married David Simpson while he was serving in the military at Shiroi Air Force Base in Japan. They wed on May 3, 1958 in Matsudo, Japan.

Masako enjoyed playing golf with the Lock Erin and Raisin Valley Ladies League, loved pottery work, playing bingo and going to casinos. She assisted Japanese families associated with Lenawee Stamping Plant adjust to life here in America. Masako also worked as a seamstress, a translator and hosted many exchange students. She loved to travel back to Japan to visit and celebrate time with family and friends.

She was especially proud of her four grandsons — the joy of her life. 

Masako is survived by her loving husband, David; her children, Sandra L. (William) Waddell of Ada, Mich., and Robert A. (Laura) Simpson of Plymouth, Mich.; grandchildren, Grant Waddell, Andrew, Daniel and Joel Simpson; her sister-in-law, Helene Ruhl; and a brother-in-law, John P. (Joan) Simpson. 

At her request cremation has taken place and a graveside service will be held on Saturday, October 8, 2016 at Riverside Cemetery, Clinton, Mich., at 12 p.m.

Memorial contributions in Masako’s honor may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the American Cancer Society.

Condolences may be offered to the family at www.handlerfuneralhomes.com.