Michael Lynn Simpson, 62, of Pawnee, Illinois, passed away Friday, May 3, 2024, in Springfield. He was born Aug. 27, 1961, in Springfield, the son of Harry R. and Margaret L. Wright Simpson Jr. He married Rochelle “Shelley” I. Freitag on March 1, 2024, in Springfield. Michael was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

Michael graduated from Pawnee High School in 1979. He worked as a seed analyst at the Illinois Department of Agriculture for more than 30 years. Agriculture was an important part of Michael’s life, and he also worked for Boarman Brothers in Pawnee for 29 years. He loved spending time at the lake and was an avid fisherman. Additionally, he was a sports fan, rooting for the Atlanta Braves baseball team and the Florida State Seminoles football team.

He is survived by his wife, Shelley Simpson, of Springfield; one son, Travis M. (wife, Megan) Simpson, of Pawnee; one daughter, Amanda M. (husband, Dominic) Clouser, of Rochester; four grandchildren, Braxton and Tucker Simpson and Renzo and Aria Clouser; one brother, Ed Simpson, of Pawnee; one uncle, Tom (wife, Mona) Simpson, of Pawnee; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Michael’s family will meet friends from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at Curry Funeral Home in Pawnee. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 9, at the funeral home, with Rev. A.B. Bennett officiating. Burial will follow at Horse Creek Cemetery in Pawnee.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Pawnee Sports Boosters, P.O. Box 196, Pawnee, IL 62558. Curry Funeral Home in Pawnee is serving the family of Michael Simpson. Online condolences may be expressed at www.curryfh.com.