Obituary

Robert L. Simpson:
A Life of Dedication and Creativity
(August 5, 1947 - November 18, 2023)

Celebrating Bob's Life and Legacy

Bob's memory lives on through his loving wife, Estelle Carol; his children, Dana and Colin; his sister, Sheila Chapelle; and his brother, Craig Simpson. A memorial event is planned for August 17, 2024, to honor his remarkable life.

Estelle has created a memorial website to celebrate Bob’s many talents, energy, creativity, and generosity. Friends, colleagues, and those touched by Bob’s life are invited to share their memories and stories. Please send your comments and memories to Estelle at ecarol[at]webtraxstudio.com and alert her with a text message at 708-616-6473.

Early Life and Education

Bob graduated from Springbrook High School in Montgomery County, MD, where he was an active member of the "It's Academic" team. He earned a BA in English Literature and Secondary Education from the University of Maryland College Park and later pursued an MA in Urban Education from Catholic University and an MA in History from Northeastern Illinois University.

Bob was deeply influenced by the Beat Generation and the folk music revival of the early 1960s. During his time at the University of Maryland, he played a pivotal role in the Students for a Democratic Society chapter on campus, advocating for social justice and equality.

A Lifelong Activist

Bob’s commitment to activism began early in his career. After graduating, he taught at Roosevelt High School and Western High School in the District of Columbia, where he supported local chapters of the Black Panther Party and the Patriot Party. His activism extended to antiwar efforts, and he was a part of the Mother Bloor Collective.

In 1973, Bob joined the Venceremos Brigade, an initiative where American activists traveled to Cuba to work in solidarity with the socialist country. It was on this trip that he met his future wife, Estelle Carol, leading to his move to Chicago.

A Dynamic Partnership

In Chicago, Bob and Estelle formed a powerful partnership, publishing a comic-book style history of the United States, "The Incredible Shrinking American Dream," through a radical lens. Under the Carol Simpson CartoonWork moniker, they produced hundreds of cartoons for various publications, including union, educational, business, alternative, activist, environmental, and academic outlets. Bob's witty and thought-provoking gags, combined with Estelle's compelling illustrations, made their work a staple in the labor movement.

Their cartoons aimed to motivate people to question socio-economic systems and support a well-organized working-class movement. Estelle and Bob believed deeply in the power of an educated, democratic, and diverse labor force to create a more humane world.

Chicago Activism and Beyond

Bob initially worked as a training specialist for adult learners at the City Colleges of Chicago before spending 15 years teaching in the Catholic school system. Later, he focused on the business end of their home-based graphic design and website development company, WebTrax Studio. Bob was also a prolific blogger, writing for "The BobboSphere" and contributing regularly to the Daily Kos and other online publications.
Bob was a visible and active figure in the Chicago left, participating in countless demonstrations. He later documented these events through photography, generously sharing his images with sponsoring organizations and individuals.

Throughout his career, Bob was a proud member of several labor unions, including AFSCME Local 1072, Washington Teachers Union Local 6 (AFT), and the National Writers Union. Despite his activism being cut short by a stroke in 2016, Bob continued to contribute to the cause through social media, sharing his insights and perspectives.

A Legacy of Love and Dedication

Bob's life was a testament to his unwavering dedication to social justice, education, and creative expression. His legacy lives on through his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched. Bob's humor, passion, and relentless pursuit of a better world will continue to inspire all who knew him.

For those who wish to explore Bob and Estelle’s work, an archive of over 800 cartoons created between 1985 and 2015 is being designed and can be viewed at Carol Simpson CartoonWork.

Remembering Bob

Bob's spirit, creativity, and commitment to justice will never be forgotten. As we gather to celebrate his life, we remember a man who lived fully, loved deeply, and dedicated himself to making the world a better place.

Please join us in keeping Bob's memory alive by sharing your stories and memories. Bob's legacy is not just in the work he created but in the love and inspiration he left behind.

Robert L. Simpson, fondly known as "Bobbo," passed away on November 18, 2023, at the age of 76. Born in Washington, D.C., Bob's journey through life was one of passion, activism, and creativity. He moved to Chicago at the age of 26, where he left an indelible mark on the communities he served and inspired.