Gregory Simmons

Gregory Gerald Simmons, 72, of Guelph, passed away on January 3, 2018 at Hospice Wellington. He was the beloved husband of Laura (Zavarise). Devoted, proud and loving father to Kyle and his wife Erin (Kincardine) and Eric and his wife Danielle (Toronto). Cherished grandpa and guardian angel to Tyler Gregory Simmons. Predeceased by his parents, Gerald and Iris Simmons (Gravenhurst) and deeply missed by his sister Elinor and her husband Robert Montgomery (Kanata). Greg will be lovingly remembered by his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Guglielmina and Luciano Capovilla (Guelph) and Dino and Frances Zavarise (Burlington), nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Greg grew up in Gravenhurst, enjoyed returning to his home town, and spent many happy times with family and friends at the cottage on Muskoka Bay. Upon retirement he and Laurie travelled to many exciting places and he always looked forward to their next adventure. He cherished his lifelong friends and the time spent with them at annual Michigan golf trips, fishing trips, curling at the Milton Curling Club, great dinners, and reunions.

On graduation from Laurentian University he was hired as a summer student at the Guelph Correctional Centre. This led to a 34 year career with Ontario’s Ministry of Correctional Services where he held many management positions including Superintendent of a number of correctional facilities, Director of Staff Training and Development, Deputy Regional Director and Director of Transition. He had great admiration for those who make a difference in correctional services.

We’ll always remember how he faced life challenges with courage, strength and determination, including throughout his illness. We mourn our loss, yet celebrate a life well lived, blessed with a loving supportive family, many loyal friends, wonderful neighbours and fond memories.

Friends will be received at Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St, Guelph, on Friday, January 5, 2018 from 10-11 a.m., with a service to follow in the funeral home chapel at 11:00 a.m. A private family interment will take place following the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice Wellington. Donation cards are available at the funeral home (519-821-5077), or online donations and condolences may be left at www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com.

A memorial service will be held for Gregory at the Hart Chapel, on Friday, January 5, 2018 at 11:00 a.m., with visitation one hour prior to the service.