Sutherland "Sim" Simpson

Dr. Sutherland “Sim” Simpson of Chico, Ca., passed away, surrounded by his children, peacefully at his home on October 14, 2026. He was 14 days shy of his 93rd birthday.

Sim is survived by his three children and their spouses: Debbie and David White of Bend, Oregon; Mike and Pam Simpson of San Luis Obispo, California; Gordy and Jennifer Simpson of Ventura, California; and his four grandchildren Taylor White and his wife Shaelynn, Carter Simpson, Danika and Ryan Simpson, and many nieces and nephews.

Sim was born October 28, 1933, in Rochester, New York, to Dr. Sutherland Eric and Alberta Simpson. After high school, Sim attended Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts, where he graduated in 1955 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Sim is the third generation of Simpson physicians. Following in their footsteps, he attended medical school at the University of Rochester in Rochester, New York. He moved to Salt Lake City, Utah, to complete his residency in orthopedics. He also attended Stanford University as part of an orthopedic internship. It was in Salt Lake City where he met Jan Scovil. They were married June 28, 1961. Sim and Jan moved to Harlingen, Texas, where he was assigned as a surgeon in the United States Air Force, reaching the rank of Captain. He was then stationed in San Angelo, Texas, where Debbie was born. Following his military service, the young family moved back to Salt Lake City to complete his residency. Sim and Jan welcomed their newborn son Mike. After completing his residency, the growing family moved to Chico, California, to start Sim’s medical practice. His third child, Gordy, was born. Sim spent decades in Chico as a highly regarded orthopedic surgeon, implementing many innovative surgical procedures in joint replacement and trauma care, establishing himself as a foundational pillar of the Northern California healthcare community.

Sim thoroughly enjoyed being in the outdoors. He and Jan enjoyed traveling, especially sailing the waters off numerous international ports of call with family and friends. In addition, he enjoyed helicopter skiing, water skiing, scuba diving, cycling, hunting, hiking, and golfing. At home, in Stilson Canyon, Sim spent his time reading a variety of books and magazines, tinkering around the house, tending to Jan’s garden, caring for his donkeys, and raising many beloved dogs. When not at home, he thoroughly loved spending time at the family cabin on California’s Lake Almanor, where his adventurous nature provided lasting memories for family and friends.

Sim was truly a role model to many fortunate to know him and be within his sphere of influence. He will long be remembered for being deeply thoughtful, possessing a sharp intellect, employing strong, steady hands, and always poking around for a good laugh.

Sim maintained a strongly independent and active lifestyle that was fortified by his abiding love for his wife and children. Sim will be deeply missed.

A memorial service for Sim will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Bidwell Presbyterian Church, 208 W 1st St, Chico, CA 95928. All family and friends are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be given to the North Valley Health Education Foundation Scholarship in memory of Janet and Sutherland Simpson. Website: NVHEF.org