Earl H. Simpson, 75, of Dowagiac, passed away at 6:43 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2009, at his home.

Earl’s life began on Oct. 20, 1934, in Bertrand Township, the son of Floyd and Nora Simpson.

He was united in marriage to the former Elaine Perrin on June 28, 1953, in Dowagiac.

He was employed as a truck driver in the logging industry and driving mobile homes to their sites.

Earl was a well-known stock car driver for more than 20 years in the area.

He appeared at tracks in Mottville, New Paris and South Bend, Ind., Hartford and Plymouth, Ind.

He was a faith-filled member of the Word of Life Family Worship Center.

Earl’s loving family includes: his wife of 56 years, Elaine Simpson of Dowagiac; his children, Lynn (William) Spooner of Dowagiac, Randy S. (Diane) Simpson of Dowagiac, and Ricky Simpson of Mishawaka, Ind.; 13 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild; a brother, Floyd “Junior” (Rachel) Simpson of Dowagiac; and several nieces and nephews.

Earl is preceded in death by his parents, sons Mike and Ronnie Simpson, daughter-in-law Denise Simpson and brother Ralph Simpson.

His family will gather with friends on Tuesday from 1 to 3 p.m. at Yazel and Clark Chapel, where his funeral service will be held on Tuesday at 3 p.m. led by Pastor Ron Cooper.

He will be laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery, Dowagiac.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Cass County Cancer Services or Hospice at Home.

Please sign his memory book and leave a message for the family at www.yazel-clark.com.