Stephen Donald Simpson, age 57, of Ray, ND, passed away peacefully on August 12th, 2025 at CHI ST Alexius in Bismarck, ND where he was surrounded by family. Born on August 20th, 1967 in Ft Carson, CO to Donald Norman Simpson and Noraine JoAnn Simpson (Grimson), and grew up in Ray. A beloved son, brother, father, uncle, and grandpa.

Stephen shared his love of the outdoors with his family. Throughout his life he has enjoyed countless hours of fishing and hunting with his Dad and brother, Randy as he found peace in nature and the beauty of the land. He also enjoyed helping his Dad and Grandpa Norman farm and learned to drive and work on heavy machinery at a very young age. Growing up, he was a wonderful big brother, often letting his younger siblings tag along and ensuring that they both knew how loved they were. We share in the memories of these cherished times and hold them near to our heart.

After graduation, Stephen worked in the oil field during the late 80s. He attended Thief River Falls Technical College where he would earn his degree in Aviation and Powerplant Mechanics. He held various positions in construction throughout this time. Most recently, Stephen enjoyed helping his brother and Dad at the water depot and completed several hot shot runs for Jeffrey at Simpson Welding. Bailing hay for his son during the busy summers was something he looked forward to.

Stephen loved his family deeply and was very proud of his three children, Amanda, Jeffrey and Justin. He beamed with happiness when he got to spend time with his grandchildren and loved buying them treats at Cenex.

He is survived by his father, Donald Simpson; brother, Randall Simpson (Ranae); sister, Ranae Aakre; two children, Amanda Magnuson (Cam and their children: Kaden, Jack, Brady and Easton) and Jeffrey Simpson (Tricia and their children: Cole, Cara, and Parker). Stephen is also survived by 5 nieces and nephews (Jenna, Kasey, Logan, Gavin and Lakyn).

Stephen is preceded in death by his beloved mother, Noraine Simpson; son, Justin Simpson; grandparents, Norman and Gladys Simpson and Norman and Evelyn Grimson; uncle, Eugene Grimson; and auntie Judy Simpson.

His legacy will not be defined by the battles he fought, but by the kind spirit and warm smile he carried through them. Throughout life, his words of encouragement uplifted friends and family, no matter the hardship. By choosing to see the good in others, we keep his soul alive forever.