GARY RICHARD SIMMONS

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GARY RICHARD SIMMONS
1944 - 2019

After a brief but heroic battle with cancer, Gary Simmons passed away at the Pinawa Hospital on June 2, 2019.
Keeping him alive in our hearts is his wife Grace (née Huhn) of over 50 years, his two children, Brent Simmons (Devon Richardson) and Melissa Simmons (Andrew Csaszar), his two grandsons, Dylan and Tyler Csaszar, and a supportive group of extended family and friends.
Gary was predeceased by his father Richards, his mother Jean and his brother Jim.
Gary was born on September 21, 1944 in Winnipeg and graduated from the University of Manitoba in 1966 with a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering degree. He worked at Atomic Energy of Canada (AECL) in Pinawa from 1966 to 1998 and then consulted to the European Commission, Ontario Hydro and the Nuclear Waste Management Organization for a number of years. Gary was instrumental in the creation of AECL's Underground Research Laboratory to study how radioactive waste could be stored safely and securely.
It was in Pinawa that Gary met the love of his life, Grace. They married in Grace's home town of Pine Falls on June 29, 1968 and spent the next 50 magical years together in Pinawa. During this time they raised their two children, Brent and Melissa, created wonderful memories with their extended family and made so many cherished friendships. Gary loved trains, poker, golf and travelling the world with Grace.
Gary believed in giving back to the community and spent many years volunteering with the Pinawa Christian Fellowship, the Pinawa 50+ Club and the National Association of Federal Retirees.
Gary will be remembered for his generosity of spirit, untiring work ethic, gentle modesty and devotion to his family and friends. Grace couldn't have asked for a better husband. Brent and Melissa couldn't have asked for a better father.
We would like to thank everyone at the Pinawa Hospital and CancerCare for all their support. A very special thank you to Dr. Bruneau, Connie, Rhonda, Wanda and Winter for their compassion and excellent care.
There will be a celebration of Gary's life on Sunday, June 9 at the F.W. Gilbert School in Pinawa at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gary's memory to the Children's Wish Foundation, the Siloam Mission or the charity of your choosing.

SOBERING FUNERAL CHAPEL
& CREMATORIUM, Beausejour
204-268-3510 or MB Toll Free 1-877-776-2220
www.soberingfuneralchapel.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 06, 2019