“Oh to be in England”
Mary Simper was born October 30, 1921 in Bristol, England and passed away peacefully May 4, 2013 in Murray, Utah.
Her parents, Francis Thomas and Eva Louise Saville raised her in a loving family in turbulent times of war.
She was stationed in Germany during World War II where she met and married John W. Simper. They had four daughters: Linda Plouzek (David), Barbara (deceased), Robyn K Simper, and Christine Williams. Moving across the ocean to Utah in 1952 was a difficult decision for her but she created a wonderful life for herself and her family. She never stopped. She provided opportunities for her daughters to discover their talents by sewing for others. She opened a knitting shop that gave her an outlet for her creative side, all the while doing community service. At the age of 57 she began her college career at Westminster College and at 62 earned her Doctorate in Social Gerontology at a time when “holistic health” was not recognized as a viable option. She began teaching on a college level and continued for over 20 years. She has been a well-known lecturer in and outside of Utah. Mary has never been afraid to speak her mind or pursue a cause that she believes in. She has loved life and encouraged us to “live well” every minute.
She was preceded in death by her husband John, her daughter Barbara and many well-loved family members and friends. She leaves behind her loving family: her 3 daughters, 9 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren.
A celebration of her life will be Friday May 10, 2013 beginning at 6:00 p.m. A gathering will begin at 5:30 p.m. at Memorial Mortuary, 5850 S 900 East Murray, Utah. At her request, there will be no viewing.