December 24, 1934 - December 24, 2024
In loving memory ~
Tom Simpson left us on his 90th Birthday, Christmas Eve 2024. Born to Jack and Hazel Simpson and raised in Bow Island Alberta alongside sister Kay, brother Don and Skipper who let them know if a rattlesnake was around. The little house had no electricity or running water, yet it was home even when the winter winds drove snow inside via a leaky door.
Dad matured early, at 16 he was driving a school bus while still a student. At 18 he joined the RCMP where he trained for the musical ride and went from a non-swimmer to a bronze medallion holder.
Dad served 26 years being posted across BC and in Ottawa. All the postings saw him make good friends particularly at Grand Forks, marrying Mom there, becoming a Mason and continuing his curling proficiency. Younger people would come by the house while Dad was off duty to get his counsel. His last posting at Vancouver saw him attain the rank of Staff Sergeant.
Moving to Comox Dad built his own house putting in many 14-hour long days framing, roofing, plumbing, wiring, masonry and finishing, Dad was multi-skilled. Later he worked as a guard at the Courtenay police office for 17 years.
Retirement led to building his own computers, which gave him much satisfaction. Fishing for salmon was his special time with family and friends. One trip to Nootka Sound with grandson Jamie saw them catch a Tyee. Dad played guitar which led to him joining the "HeartStrings" at Florence Filberg which became a big part of his life and led to lasting friendships. Visiting relatives through the years was important and saw Tom and Clare make regular trips back to the Prairies.
Home life saw him reading, playing guitar, and relaxing with the yorkies sharing his chair or couch, there was always at least one dog in his life.
Dad had a quiet steady way about him that all respected. He was always there for us - deeply missed by wife of 65 years Clare, children Shelly and Tom Jr, grandchildren Jamie (Alyssa) and Sara (Tom), great-grandchildren Frankie, Stevi, and Halle.
Thanks to Dr. Laura Bell and staff at the Views who cared for Dad in his final years.
