Obituary of Raymond Albert Simpson

Born: February 16, 1937

Passed Away: May 7, 2010

It is with deep sorrow that we announce Ray's sudden but peaceful passing in Cranbrook, British Columbia. Born to a pioneer family in North Star, Alberta, he grew up in the Peace Country farming and then apprenticed to be a Heavy Duty Mechanic, which was his life long career before retiring from the Tembec Pulp Mill in 2002.

In those early days, before electricity in that country, he learned to sing and play guitar, banjo and fiddle and was in a band for awhile. He still enjoyed entertaining friends and family with his repertoire of good old country songs. He was a passionate hunter who truly understood that the hunt itself is far more important than the end result. Slow talking but quick with a laugh, he always would have something funny to say in most any situation. We suspect that this would be no different. We will miss him!!

Ray is survived by his friend Anne, daughter Michelle (Tom) Steinberg, stepchildren: George (Jean) Terpsma and Angela Terpsma; grandchildren: Brandon Steinberg, Kate and Doug Terpsma and Courtney Rae; great grandchildren: Curtis and Myranda; brothers Allan and Lyle. He was predeceased by his parents Harvey and Chrissie Simpson; brothers Don and Nelson; daughter Kim and infant son Tracey.

There will be a celebration of Ray's life on Sunday, May 16, 2010 at 2:00 pm at the Cranbrook Alliance Church and the family invites youl to share your favourite story of Ray. Those wishing to make a memorial donation in honour of Ray may do so to the: Kootenay Wildlife Heritage Fund, P. O. Box 100, Kimberley, British Columbia, V1A 2Y5.

 

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.

Condolences for the family can be offered at:

www.mcphersonfh.com