Kenneth Ray Simpson

Kenneth Ray Simpson, aged 68, of Ottumwa (formerly Monroe), passed away on September 3, 2025. Kenny’s family will greet friends for visitation on Friday, September 12, 2025, from 5:00 - 7:00 PM at the Presbyterian Church in Monroe. The funeral will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 10:30 AM at the Presbyterian Church. Burial will take place at Silent City Cemetery following the funeral. Coffee and desserts will be served at the church after the burial; all are welcome to attend. Memorials may be made out in Kenny’s name to the Monroe Fire Department or PCM Scouts BSA Troop 348. If you are unable to attend and wish to leave a card, please address it to, “Attn: Kenny Simpson, Coburn Funeral Home, 24 W Howard St, Colfax, IA 50054.”

The son of Melvin and Ina (DeHeer) Simpson, Kenny was born in Knoxville, Iowa on April 1, 1957. He grew up in Monroe and graduated from Monroe High School. Shortly after high school Kenny was married and had two children, Heidi and Joseph. In 2000 he was married to Danyale Van Vark, together they had one son Jordan.

Kenny tried his hand at a few different jobs before he started driving truck. Once he got behind the wheel and established his CB handle “The Wanderer,” there was no turning back. Throughout his lengthy career on the road, he traveled the continental United States and parts of Canada. Over the years Kenny became versed in operating multiple types of semi-trucks, if it had a steering wheel he could drive it. He hauled everything from toys to farm machinery.

Over the course of his trucking career Kenny put in a lot of miles and time working to support his family. You could find him with his sleeves rolled up or no sleeves at all. His friendly personality always rode shotgun with him. If there was a chance to help someone, Kenny was going to do it. In his spare time, he enjoyed riding motorcycles, listening to seventies music, and camping. His love of camping started back as a Scout.

Kenny is survived by his wife, Danyale (Van Vark) Simpson; his mother, Ina (DeHeer) Simpson; children, Heidi (Chad) Liventals, Joe (Mendy) Simpson, and Jordan Simpson; grandkids, Ray, Conlan, Ethan, Nora, and Emery; his siblings, Steve Simpson, Terrie Simpson, Sherrie (Tom) Mouw, Anita (Martin Eveleth) Simpson, and Lorri (Brian) Hazelton; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding Kenny in death was his father, Melvin Simpson; nieces and nephews; Joshua Simpson, Taylor Talsma, and Korver Hazelton; and a sister-in-law, Lu Anne Simpson.