SIMPSON, Raymond Roy
1929 – 2009
It is with heavy hearts and sadness that we announce the passing of Ray Simpson on September 7, at age 80. Ray is lovingly remembered by his wife Bonnie; children Barry (Linda), Donald (Susan), Allan (Carla) and grandchildren Dani and Jessie, Kaitlynn, Chanelle and Keegan; his sister Elsie Chapman; brother Frank (Bernice) Simpson; sister Bernice (Dan) Widney; brother Stan (Lois) Simpson; sister Shirley Keats; and numerous nieces and nephews. Ray was an avid fisherman who truly enjoyed the time spent with family and friends at the cabin in Northern Saskatchewan. A lover of all sports, he especially enjoyed golfing and curling and was a dedicated Bronco’s fan. One of the highlights of Ray’s day was meeting his friends and enjoying the discussions at coffee row. The grandchildren all have fond memories of time spend with grandpa helping in the garden every summer. Ray was a store manager of MacLeods Hardware for 25 years. After retirement he had a 20 year second career as district manager of Pierce National Life in Alberta. Ray was a mentor and guide to everyone on his staff. His guidance and example contributed greatly to everyone’s success. Ray will be sorely missed by family and friends. Many thanks to the nursing staff in ICU at Cypress Regional Hospital and to Dr Tagboto for the excellent care given to Ray. In lieu of flowers those so wishing may make a donation to the Canadian Kidney Foundation or the “Shriners Patient Travel Fund” at Box 823 Swift Current, SK S9H 3W8. A celebration of Ray’s life was held at Warren’s Funeral Chapel on September 9, for immediate family with Rev. Kevin E. Johnston of First United Church officiating.
When I am gone, release me, let me go…
I have so many things to see and do
You mustn’t tie yourself to me with tears
Be happy that we had so many years.
I gave to you my love, you can only guess
How much you gave to me in happiness.
I thank you for the love you each have shown,
But now it’s time I traveled on alone.
So grieve a while for me if grieve you must;
Then let your grief be comforted by trust.
It’s only for a while that we must part
So bless the memories within your heart.
I won’t be far away, for life goes on;
So if you need me, call and I will come,
Though you can’t see nor touch me, I’ll be near,
And if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear,
All of my love around you soft and clear.
And then, when you must come this way alone,
I’ll greet you with a smile and say, “Welcome Home!”
Very special thanks to friends Margaret Patrick, Dr. David Johnston, and Dr. Bandhu Sharma, the wonderful people who were always there for Ray and myself during this past month.
With deepest gratitude, Bonnie Simpson