Rest in Peace: Fred Simpson, Bodysurfing Legend

“It’s with a very sad heart I send this message,” the post reads. “Fred Simpson passed away peacefully last night. He was 86 years old.”

“Fred Simpson, Husband to “His First Wife” Anne for decades. Father to Vickie & Julie. Mentor, father figure and inspirational support to many Lifeguards, Bodysurfers and Bodyboarders and other men & women around the world.

“Fred’s ashes will be spread at sea in a private, family ceremony. Respect for the family’s privacy is greatly appreciated.

“The GPS location will be shared for those who would like to ‘Visit’ Fred in the future. A Hawaiian Style Paddle-Out and picnic / potluck lunch at The Wedge will be organized and announced soon so stay tuned.”

For more on Fred’s history, and the creation of Viper Fins, here’s from their website:

“Fred Simpson, the inventor of Viper Surfing Fins graduated High School at 17.

“Fred Lifeguarded at Long Beach for many years and was a swimmer and water polo player at UCLA.

“He met a man named Don Redington at The Wedge in 1962. Don (AKA "The White Whale") was an All -America swimmer at USC and like Fred loved bodysurfing The Wedge. Fred was at The Wedge one day talking to Ron Romanoski- a big wave kneeboarder, shaper and photographer. Ron has been a member of the infamous "Wedge Crew" since 1962. After returning from his combat tour of duty in the Vietnam, Fred showed Ron a balsawood model of the fin. Ron suggested to Fred that he should show it to Don Redington. Don loved the design and together they created Pacific South Swell- the parent company of Viper Surfing Fins. Fred perfected the Patented design through hardcore testing in California's most challenging wave and got the fins on the feet of some of the most talented bodysurfers and bodyboarders to ever challenge The Wedge!”

Rest in peace, Fred Simpson.