Vera Catalano Simpkins at the Piano with her Husband Bill Simpkins at the Microphone, early 1950s

Vera's husband, Bill worked for PG&E but his passion was music: he had a fine tenor voice and was a member of the San Francisco Opera Chorus for many years.  He also sang popular songs and here he is, accompanied by Vera, providing entertainment at an unnamed Bay Area restaurant or banquet hall.



Vera meanwhile, taught piano privately while raising their son, Bob.

Here's some of the sheet music they used for their concerts and for Bill's opera performances:

Inside the cover of the complete opera, music and libretto, of Madame Butterfly is this inscription from Vera to Bill:

(Lt. Pinkerton is the leading male role in the opera and the lover of Madame Butterfly)