Longtime AP bureau chief Victor Simpson, who covered 5 popes, dies at 84

1. 1964
   Simpson's father, Leonard P. Simpson, was shot and killed during a robbery in their apartment building.
2. 1967
   Simpson joined the AP in Newark, New Jersey, writing an award-winning series on organized crime.
3. 1972
   Simpson was assigned to Rome as news editor and met his future wife, Daniela Petroff.
4. Dec. 27, 1985
   His daughter Natasha was killed and son Michael wounded in a Palestinian militant attack at Rome's airport.
5. 1988
   Simpson asked Pope John Paul II about the Solidarity strikes during a flight to Uruguay, producing a major exclusive.
6. 2013
   Simpson planned to retire the same day Pope Benedict XVI's resignation took effect, then stayed to cover the conclave electing Pope Francis.

“Victor had an extraordinary life and career, and built a lasting legacy at the AP.”