The Camp Courageous Family is saddened by the passing of Marilou Simpson, 98, of Rock Island, IL. Marilou leaves a legacy of unmatched love and service to others… The attached picture was taken at Marilou’s 95th Birthday. Marilou and her husband, Don, lived and volunteered at Camp Courageous for over two-years! They were an exceptional pair! They lived in an apartment in the basement of Pitlik Cabin. They worked virtually every day, over those 2+ years doing anything needing done. Marilou was fond of working in dietary and Don enjoyed his work in the maintenance department. After leaving Camp, they continued to stop regularly and was Camp’s #1 Camp Courageous Fruitcake seller in Illinois and was also a regular at all Jim McDonough Concerts in the Quad City area. Marilou has been in the Friendship Manor in Rock Island for 8-years, having moved from their home in the Milan IL area. Marilou was tickled to tell how see had been hanging out with another ‘Charlie’ for the past few years…a name she gave her walker 😊.
In a union filled with love and partnership, Marilow married Donald Simpson on December 27, 1952, in Wyoming, Illinois. Marilou’s commitment to service extended beyond her church, as she proudly spent 20 years as a mission volunteer (with Don) traveling all over the United States and worked with Habitat for Humanity. She was also a dedicated member of the Friendship Force International of the Quad Cities, Delta Kappa Gamma Sorority , and the Home Extension. Marilou’s passion for music, education and square dancing enriched her life and the lives of those around her. Her 31 years of teaching inspired many children (and campers). She leaves a profound impact on everyone who knew her. Those who survive her and will honor her memory include her cherished daughters, Linda (Syd) DePooter of Milan and Louann (Blaine) Krogman of White River, South Dakota. In this time of sadness, let us take solace in the beautiful memories we shared with Marilou, who exemplified faith, grace, kindness, and unwavering love…