William (Bill) Ernest Simmons

William Ernest Simmons 

   The family would like to announce the peaceful passing of William Ernest Simmons on April 8, 2024 at his home in Hillcrest Place in Brandon, just three days short of his 92nd birthday. Bill was born in Minnedosa to parents Bessie and Ernest Simmons on April 11, 1932 and was the oldest of three boys.

   Bill grew up on the family farm near Bethany and after attending Bethany School, he took a course at Brandon Agricultural College. This proved to be very useful as farming became his occupation. He was very proud of the Black Angus cattle that he raised and his biggest moment came when he sold and delivered a side of beef to John Ferguson, the general manager of the Winnipeg Jets. The family all appreciated his wonderful beef as well – the steaks were so tender, you could cut them with a plastic knife and fork!

   Hockey was a passion – hence his excitement in selling that side of beef to John Ferguson! As a prairie boy, growing up when he did, the Toronto Maple Leafs were the ONLY team to root for. He amassed quite a collection of players’ pictures by sending away the wrappers from Beehive Corn Syrup.

   Bill loved to travel as well. Many trips were made to BC on the train to visit brother Don and family and later travel included trips to Florida, Alaska, and California. He always said he’d love to live in San Diego as the weather was perfect all year around. Bill also enjoyed going to Clear Lake – unfortunately, he never got to see nephew, Mark & Dara’s new cabin or enjoy their bathroom! (one of his questions whenever he saw Mark was when were they going to put in a bathroom!)

   Bill had a keen interest in current affairs and was always up for a discussion on the shortcomings of the various politicians – once he got on a particular topic, it was really hard to get him off it!

  After his dad passed away, Bill continued to stay and work on the farm with many trips made to Minnedosa, Neepawa  or Brandon for coffee and to socialize. After his mother’s passing, he sold the farm and moved into Minnedosa. He enjoyed his new life in town and could often be seen out and about on one of his many long walks.

  When his apartment building in Minnedosa was being renovated, Bill moved into Brandon and enjoyed it so much, he stayed! It took quite a bit of convincing, but once he got a walker, there was no stopping him! If he got tired on one of his walks, he had someplace to sit and rest.

   When Bill began to have health issues, he made the decision to move into Hillcrest Place. There, he endeared himself to the staff and other residents. From the very beginning, the staff said how they loved having him there. He was always very positive and uncomplaining even when he was in pain. When asked about the food, he’d always say that some meals were better than others and that it was a lot better that what he could make for himself. A staff member related that when Bill ended up having to use a wheelchair, he told her that at least he still had his arms and could still get around by himself.

   Bill attended St. John’s Church in Bethany and St. Mark’s in Minnedosa and was a very faithful member. He also attended the services held at Hillcrest Place.

   Bill was close to his cousin Ray and Joan Madill. We appreciate Joan’s friendship as we know he enjoyed chatting with her on the phone. We also appreciate her persuading him to get that walker!!

  And speaking of the phone, Bill phoned his brother Jim every morning which is pretty admirable. However, Bill was an early riser and those calls occurred before Jim was out of bed! Jim never let on.

   Bill was predeceased by his parents, Bessie & Ernest Simmons and brother Don & wife Elizabeth. He is survived by his brother Jim (Pat) and nephews Mark (Dara), Jason (Magda) and Marty. (Kaley)  

   Donations in Bill’s memory can be made to the Cancer Society.

May the road rise to meet you

May the wind be always at your back

May the sun shine warm upon your face

And rains fall soft upon your fields

And until we meet again,

May God hold you in the hollow of his hand

Traditional Irish Blessing

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