Rena Simpson (nee Cornell)

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of our Mom, Rena Simpson on Friday, April 23rd, 2021 with her three children by her side. She was born in Red Deer, Alberta to Lucy and Cecil Cornell, the eldest of five children including brothers Wayne, Pat, Merle and Gary. Rena had an adventurous spirit and moved to the lower mainland in the early 60’s where she raised Lori, Shari and Dave. Growing up, we often heard stories of her career as a store detective for The Bay which always kept us on the straight and narrow. Later on, she enjoyed being a realtor for Century 21 which allowed her to plan her favourite trip, a cruise that took her to Hawaii, Australia and New Zealand. She always loved to travel, and we have many memories of Mom putting us in the car and driving all night while we slept peacefully. She enjoyed going up to Grand Forks to spend time with her lifelong and best friend, Lynne, and visiting one of her favourite spots, Ainsworth Hot Springs. 

 

Throughout her life she enjoyed bowling, Astrology and Kabalarian Philosophy. She loved dancing and music, especially Elvis and was thrilled when she saw him in concert. In her later years, she loved doing the daily crosswords, playing bingo and crib, and spending time with her family and friends.  Rena lived life on her terms but she was always thinking of others. She will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her son, Dave Simpson (Deanna), daughters Lori Barr (Randy) and Shari Barr (Grant) and her adored grandchildren; Ethan, Kirstin, Caleigh, Connor, William and Felix. She was so proud of each of them. 

We can’t believe that for a woman who was always running late, this is when she leaves early.