The MARC Times Racing News & Michigan Racing Scene is sad to report the passing of Michigan House Representative Mike Simpson.
The Jackson County Democrat died of a heart attack while returning home from the Cleveland Clinic where he was being treated for a rare blood disorder known as light-chain deposition.
Mike was a strong supporter in Lansing of Short Track Racing, where he was a co-chair of the Michigan Racing Caucus. He also participated in the 2007 Community Racing Challenge at Springport Motor Speedway, driving and racing a car prepared by MARC Times Racing News & Michigan Racing Scene publisher Patrick McNamara.
In addition to his support of racing, Mike was an ally to small business owners in Jackson and Lenawee counties. A former member of the U.S. Army Reserve, Mike also served as Vice-President of Crown Freight Inc, Vice-President of Elander Enterprises Freight Brokerage Services and he owned several small businesses of his own including American Graphics Advertising, Poppa's Place restaurant and the Pizza Factory pizzeria in Brooklyn, Mi
The 47-year-old was serving his second term in the House, one of 67 Democrats in the 110-member chamber. Simpson is survived by his wife Debbie and four adult children.
"We've lost a very close friend, and a guy that really cared and had passion for issues like no other that I've met since I've been here," said Dillon, a Democrat from Wayne County's Redford Township who has been in the House for five years. "I'm going to miss him greatly."
After the announcement, the House observed a moment of silence. Democratic Rep. Robert Dean, a Grand Rapids minister, offered a prayer for Simpson's family. The House flag was lowered to half-staff and Simpson's desk and chair on the Senate floor were draped in black by the House sergeants.
