Obituary of Maurice Simard

Maurice Armand Joseph Simard passed away peacefully on September 25, 2024, at the Assiniboia Union Hospital. Maurice was born on April 22, 1943, in Assiniboia to Armand and Jeanne (née LeRuyet) Simard; Maurice was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.

Maurice attended Montcalm School before continuing his education in Gravelbourg and Assiniboia. After high school, he spent two years working in Regina. In his early 20’s, he returned to the farm for the summers and in the winter spent time working in BC. In 1973, he married Jacqualyn Yarnell of Oakville, Ontario. Together, they were blessed with two children, Danielle in 1975 and Devin in 1976.

Maurice was the third generation to own and operate the family homestead southeast of Assiniboia, a legacy in which he took great pride. In 2009, he was honoured with the Century Family Farm Award and enjoyed celebrating this accomplishment with his family and friends. His passion for farming lives on through his son Devin, who continues to work the land today.

Known as a proud Poppa, Maurice cherished time spent with his grandchildren. He was actively involved with both Assiniboia Minor Hockey and the Southern Rebels Junior Hockey Club, served on the RM 72 Council for many years and was a committed community member. Maurice will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jacqualyn “Jackie” Simard, with whom he shared 51 years of marriage; his daughter, Danielle (Derek) Beatty, and grandchildren, Gillian, Abigael, and Isabelle; his son, Devin (Janielle) Simard, and grandchildren, Genevieve and Raine. Maurice is also lovingly remembered by his brothers, Guy (Terry) Simard, Normand Simard, and Alain Simard; and his sister, Colette (Brian) Dean, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents, Armand and Jeanne Simard, his sister and brother-in-law, Valerie (Glen) Hicke, his sisters-in-law, Joyce Simard & Ruth Steadman and nephew Michael Simard.

A Celebration of Maurice’s Life will be held on Friday, October 18, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at St. George Parish Hall. Memorial donations in Maurice's memory may be made to Assiniboia Minor Hockey Box 626, Assiniboia, SK S0H 0B0 or the Southern Rebels Box 515, Assiniboia, SK S0H 0B0.