Hello Father, It's been a while since my last (confession) 🤪

Terrible jokes aside... I know in my heart, that guilty feelings have no place here and you taught me there's no statute of limitations on expressing yourself.  I think of you constantly, and your memory continues to shape who I am.

Lately, I've been reflecting on some of your sage advice... and I'm seeing how much you understood me, as well as the person I'd grow to be.  Maybe this is pretty standard parent/kid/life stuff: "I know you better than you know yourself, blah blah blah",  but I'm going on record saying that you were right.  :) 
Who doesn't love hearing that?... with us or not.

Miss you & love you.  Most importantly,  I'm proud of the person I am because of you.

You didn't get the chance you wanted to grow a relationship.... but I know you'd be so impressed by the people they're learning to be.  

I'm glad I waited until the end of this difficult day to put my thoughts down.  I had such anticipation of feelings, or avoiding feelings, and gave myself a harder time than I needed to.

Mom and I spent our day with family & friends, eating drinking and being merry. Some tears, of course, but we didn't wallow.  We agreed that you'd be proud of us... but you always were. Regardless, I'm proud of us.. we got through the year, and we'll do it again...and again,  and again.  I'm choosing not to relive my heartbreak, but sadness is inevitable. 

Your toasts and quotes were legendary,  and when they stopped embarrassing me (xo), I felt nobody did it better! So I'll offer this:

"We shall not look upon his like again. "

I think of you constantly,  and will  miss you forever. 



Dad, tomorrow is a milestone you weren't able to reach.  All of us who love you will continue to especially reflect, and remember you on this day, every year going forward. 

I believe you accomplished what so many people are desperate to do in their lives: to leave a mark, a lasting impression; to genuinely make an impact with their actions, words, and the relationships they build. You were an imperfect person, and gave me permission to be as well… but it was coupled with a ongoing commitment to be better. To learn, to improve and be proud of what you put out into the world. Countless times since you've moved on, I've looked for your input, support or one of your cheesy jokes; but I hear your voice all the time, Dad.  When I'm struggling and wondering what my next step is, I hear "Bet on yourself, Stephanie".  Thank you for always, ALWAYS believing in me.  Missing you every day…..Happy Birthday. I love you

WOW,  I have read the messages, memories written from family and friends.  
Someone so special, will not be forgotten.  Wonderful memories will live on forever, in our hearts and we will never forget.


Uncle Dennis was an honest and kind hearted man.  

 Dennis wore his heart on his sleeve; he was sensitive, caring, intelligent and stood behind his beliefs.   

I enjoyed arguing with him and he was always up for it.   He was usually wrong but I give him full credit for the effort.  

He is missed dearly by all that knew him. 





I finally got myself here, to this wonderful collection of thoughtful memories and kind condolences.  I advocated for this forum because I knew how many people loved my Dad and certainly had a good story or two to tell.  I wasn’t prepared, however, for how paralyzing it would be for me to read all these lovely things and try to put my own feelings into words.  Nothing I've tried to say can fully describe how much I loved, looked up to, relied on, and cherished my father. I am so proud to be Dennis Simpson's daughter. 
One of the visions I had for this online obituary/ memory repository was to have a place to keep sharing.  Maybe when you find yourself remembering Dennis (I believe its impossible not to) and you think of another way he's touched your life, you take a quick moment to share here.  And if it doesn’t happen that way, then I've got a good place to start journaling and feel my feelings. :)
Even before his passing, I couldn’t go long without mentioning, quoting or joking about my Dad. He was a constant figure in my life...Always.  Daddy's girl?  You bet your ass! 
I'm so grateful for everyone's kind thoughts, and I feel badly that I've not contributed much until now. I hope you can forgive my poor manners, and please know that all of your warmth has brought me much comfort and not gone unrecognized.


I met Dennis around the end of the 1990s working at a company called Business Data processing; we were managing the administrative processes of several student loan portfolios.  Dennis was my Director for some time as I took on a new role for myself as manager.  Anyone would be grateful to report to the type of Director that Dennis was.  He always provided honest feedback and advice to me as a new manager and I could count on his support in challenging situations.  Dennis also had a great sense of humour!  One day the company promoted a dress-up day for Halloween as a morale building event.  When I say “dress-up” day, Dennis definitely “dressed-up” because he came in as Mrs. Doubtfire!  It wasn’t until he started speaking with someone that you would know it was him, that’s how good of a job he did with his costume!  I wish I had a picture to share but you can use your imagination and I’m sure you will chuckle.  I was sorry to hear of the struggle with his health and saddened by his passing.  I’m grateful for having known Dennis.  He was a genuinely good person whose character is difficult to find in others.  May his family find comfort in his memories.  You will only hear good words about him from all that had the good fortune to know him.

Miss you Dennis. 
"There's no life like it!"
May the passing of time bring solace to you Valerie, Stephanie and family.

As cousin’s we only knew each other casually at family functions.  But a long time ago , I was given an old panda teddy bear at the Simpson farm in Darmody to cheer me up during a family visit with my parents. I named it Dennis. I can only guess that I named him for the person who gave it to me being only 4 or 5 at the time. I jokingly did tell Dennis I still had his teddy bear if he wanted it back, now I wish I hadn’t waited too long to  bring it over. 

Dennis loved meals out, shared with family and friends.  Being with his granddaughter was extra special

I met Dennis in 2002, when we both volunteered with United Way, and from the first day he started trying to get to know all of us, despite the diversity of languages and backgrounds. He moved like a fish in water, conversing with everyone and introducing us in such a way that language and cultural barriers disappeared and allowed a better integration for teamwork. It was the first time I could appreciate his people skills and his ability to manage people.
That was the beginning of a friendship that would last until the day of his departure, for years we would meet with Michael Kim and Mikahil Stopler to talk business, try to fix the world and its problems, to share a meal or a barbecue, and take the opportunity to see the photos of his last trip with Valery, and his group of friends.
He was a good and great friend, always concerned about what was going on with us and trying to help or bridge any problems that we, as new immigrants, had.
One of the most memorable anecdotes was that one day he came to Langley to have coffee with me, and he was absolutely annoyed by the traffic on highway #1 and said, "I would never move to Langley" and to my surprise years later he called me on the phone to tell me that he was moving to Langley.
A few days after his arrival in Langley we met for lunch, and he told me about his health problems and that he had moved to Langley to be closer to his daughter and granddaughter, whom he always spoke so fondly of.
This Big man and great man, had an excellent sense of humor, and would always share a story from his professional life or his childhood, which made our meetings always pleasant and fraternal.
I don't know if it was because he was born in  Saskatchewan,  his heart seemed to be the size of a barn where he kept a lot of affection and love for his family and friends
He will be dearly missed





I knew Dennis. He was in our circle of friends who traveled, golfed and socialized together. In our conversations, over a glass or two of wine and a dinner he had prepared with Valerie, we used to gently bait each other about the political left-right dynamic. He was a gentle and generous soul who was always devoted to Valerie and Stephanie. He was also a fighter as he demonstrated in his final years as his health continued to fail him. I will miss him. 

Valerie this is a favourite ❤️ sending hugs 

I met Dennis during the 70’s in the days of the Bank of BC, so many memories- Sneaky Pete’s, Nick’s,  Bank ski trips to Big White, precious memories of countless dinners, pac man tournaments, city scavenger hunts, weddings, Mount Baker and the “Chandelier” along with a cabin of truly wonderful friends. I feel very fortunate to have known Dennis  all those years and will treasure his smile, sense of humour, wit, honesty and am honoured to have enjoyed his sincere friendship over the years. I do believe Dennis you are in good company. ❤️ Deborah 

June 26, 2022
I met Dennis in 1979 when he welcomed me to the Bank of BC. His warm welcome started a long relationship. 
In mid-March, we met for a two-hour heart-to-heart conversation.
We talked about how much he loved Valerie. As he said, they were healthy counter points to each other during their full life together. 
Dennis lit up at mention of Stefanie. His eyes shone when speaking of the amazing young (to us) woman she is.
His joy to have two beautiful grandchildren was his greatest gift. For some minutes, he described how much he enjoyed their visits. In relating stories of the grandchildren, his eyes and voice were magnified to another time.
I will miss this genuine friend!
David Wright


I met Dennis in 1998 when I started working with him at BDP, processing student loans on behalf of Scotia Bank.  Dennis helped me from day one to understand the incredibly complicated process and all of the "after loan" supporting processes.  We worked together, went for lunch together and ended most days by going out for wings and drinks at "Heads or Tails" with a small group of office friends.  Dennis would suddenly notice the time and say "Well, I had better get going home before Valerie calls me".    Somewhere in early 2000 Dennis prompted me to meet his sister-in-law, Laurie, and in June of 2021, we were married!  Nicely done, Dennis!!
During a trip to Puerto Vallarta with Dennis and Valerie, Dennis insisted that he and I go Deep Sea Fishing, his treat.  It was the first time for me and Dennis insisted that I go first.  Well, it turns out that I hooked a 40 lb Dolphinfish (see above!).  It was a long fight to get the fish landed and before Dennis could take his turn, the boat broke down and our 4 hour fishing adventure turned into an 8 hour ordeal before returning to the dock. Dennis, as always, felt bad for the crew and tipped them generously in addition to giving them half of the fish!!  The other half was prepared for us at the resort - one of the best meals!! This is only one of so many great trips we shared with our brides and every one of them created great memories.  If you knew Dennis, then you  knew that the saying "one of a kind" absolutely applied to him.  Dennis was a great friend and brother-in-law and I will miss him until I am no more.

I have known Dennis almost as long as Valerie has!!  His sense of humor and generosity have always shone through.  I remember in the 'pre-Stephanie' years, going on a road trip down the west coast with them into Oregon and sharing our mutual first experience eating mussels in Seattle... Wow!! never looked back!  Many mussels have been consumed since!  Over the years of back and forth living between BC and Ontario, he has always been the most welcoming brother-in-law I could ever have hoped for.  He willingly invited our Mom to live with them in her last years... not an easy decision for a son-in-law.  We shared vacations in Mexico, Palm Springs, Jamaica and, most recently, a River Cruise and extended stay in France.  ... And could he cook!!  So many wonderful meals!  Christmas morning Eggs Benedict are the best!!  He was responsible for introducing me to my wonderful husband of 21 years (thanks, Dennis) and gallantly "walked me down the aisle".  His love of, devotion and support to my sister and Stephanie was always very apparent.. he was so proud of them.  It has been wonderful to see his love and delight in his little grandchildren.  Dennis never forgot a good friend and did an excellent job of keeping in touch with people from all different stages of his life.  Such a good-hearted, smart, funny, loving man and brother-in-law!!  I will miss him always.

Dennis was kind, witty and a bright light. I am grateful to have known him. I also know that his light will continue to shine through all of you - Valerie, Stephanie and the wee ones. That spark is never lost. I hope you are able to hold on to it whenever you can. 



Over 15+ years Dennis became a good friend. When he was President of the Mt. Seymour Lions I was his Secretary and when I was President he was my Secretary. We became very close and shared many laughs, frustrations and successes.

Dennis was smart, a quick thinker, strong-minded, loved golf (very happy when he hit a long drive).
He was noted for his creative ideas in fund-raising, new projects, budgeting and planning.

Dennis played a major role in developing, running the Lions golf tournament which became the major Club fund-raiser.

Dennis did an outstanding job in organizing, structuring the Lions Housing Society, long term maintenance planning and mentoring a successor.

The Club has fond memories of Dennis and his contribution to the Mt. Seymour Lions. His photo will forever remain on our Den wall, his chair will be turned inward in his honor and a significant contribution in his name has been made to one of his favorite charities Family Services North Shore.


About Dennis…
You know, I can’t quite remember when I first met Dennis. I always knew ‘of him’ back in the good ole Bank of BC days and through his beloved girls Valerie and Steph. I never had the privilege to work with him. Those that did said such wonderful things about him as a colleague and a manager. Many of which have been said by others in this memorial. Story teller, loved a good debate, kind, thoughtful and sincere. 
Back to first meetings - it could have been France when V&D and their entourage of travel companions were doing one of their fab trips abroad. Trips that I know he cherished. I remember meeting up in a wine bar and having rose and of course, great conversations. It continued from there, Vancouver dinner parties, meet ups in London when Steph and I were working there. How he adored his family - proud husband, father and eventually grandpa. 
I had the privilege of squatting at the Simpson residence when I was between homes whilst they were off on another adventure. Dennis was so thoughtful and inviting. Explaining how everything works - making sure I was OK. When Dennis cares about you, you know it and there is no better feeling than being looked in the eye sincerely and having one of those famous conversations. You are greatly missed, luvly man. 
My sincerest condolences to you my dear friends Valerie and Steph and to your loving family. 
Lorraine xo.

We travelled to BC for a wedding and then toured the region with Dennis, Valerie and a group of friends in 2008.  His dry and occasionally biting humour was ever present.  Dennis had a gift for keeping the group organized and entertained.  He was a natural leader.  It wasn't surprising then when Dennis recently proposed a repeat of our 2008 trip but this time in the Niagara region.  It won't be the same without him and so we will have to make do with the retelling of some of his favourite stories.
Our love and support to Valerie, Stephanie and the entire family.

Dennis was an important member, not only of Mt. Seymour Lions, but the Captain that steered the ship for the Mt. Seymour Lions Housing.  His knowledge and enthusiasm in both housing and in the Lions Club will be deeply missed. 
Dennis spent years dedicating his time and efforts to raise funds for the community and to  find housing for needy people.  The Club and Community will be forever grateful for his commitment and efforts. 
Thank you Dennis for all you did over the many years.  We have indeed lost a very valuable member of our Club.  
RIP Dennis 


I worked for Dennis at the Bank of BC in the early '80's.  He was a wonderful boss and never let things get too serious.  On one occasion, he saw me in a serious conversation with a branch employee and he walked across my desk and chair and walked out - never said a word.  Left me smiling the whole day.  

Sally Toporowski, Dennis and I completed a long hard project with HR and promised ourselves a rest and treat at the end so we went for lunch together.  We had lunch and drank too much, cried and laughed and got hungry again so we stayed for dinner too.  Longest lunch I have ever been on.  It was so good to rely on good friends to get back on track.

Dennis was wonderful, supportive, thoughtful and always looking for a smile.  I valued my time with him - he made a difference for me.  I will miss him and send my very best to the whole family.

Terry Robertson (nee Short)

I knew Denis - through Valerie and Stephanie and I know what a good husband, father and grandfather he was.  He was always doing something - and I remember how he was always happy to help Stephanie as she set up her condo and when she  brought her children into the world!  I remember most of all how supportive he was of Valerie, throughout her career journey and beyond and just being there for her when she needed his sage guidance.  I am thankful we were all able to get together a few times through the last few years - Denis did enjoy a good red and good company!

I wish Denis, Valerie and Stephanie peace and love -   He will always be with you
Sandra

Valerie, since receiving your first call that Dennis was in the hospital and not doing well and then your followup that he had passed, I have moved through various stages of shock, dismay, recognition of some degrees of inevitability, acceptance, and fond recollection of a wonderful friend, mentor and fine human being. I am so glad you and Stephanie were able to convey to Dennis how very much his friendship meant to me.

Dennis began as a mentor to me in RBC with this “ larger than life” personality, but our similar upbringings and rock solid values soon created a bond and lifelong friendship. We shared so many experiences and life lessons with no shortage of humour from Dennis’s wit and keen sense of humour. One memorable exchange between Dennis and a chippy golf guest in Arizona in hot debate had Dennis capping the exchange with “ well I would agree with you Robert, but then we would both be wrong”

I will miss Dennis so very much but I am so thankful for you Valerie, his wonderful wife and for your lovely family for which he was so proud. You have been with him through his very challenging health battles and I am glad you have Stephanie and her family as well as Laurie and Neil to support you. Dennis will be missed by so many.


Dennis was an exceptional person.  I appreciated his sense of humour and his pragmatism, and admired his commitment to family, friends and community.   He'll be missed and remembered by so many...  Valerie and Stephanie, I hope your many happy memories (including of times described here!) bring you some comfort. XO

Dennis was the most most wonderful man who welcomed me as one of his own and I will cherish the memories that I have of him forever in my heart. He was a man of huge character and his thoughtfulness knew no bounds. My favourite memories of Dennis are those of sitting at his dining room table with Valerie and Stephanie and us all laughing to the point of tears at Dennis’ jokes, toasts, and general mischievous banter. I always knew a lively debate was brewing when he proclaimed “as you know, I’m a keen student of history…..”
 I’ll miss receiving a call from Dennis on my birthday and other occasions as it always put the biggest smile on my face to hear his voice. Dennis Simpson….. a man you don’t meet every day. 

Valerie I extend my sincere sympathies on the loss of Dennis. Even an extended illness doesn’t prevent the shock and sorrow of your loss. I  heard from Neil &Laurie about Dennis’ frustrating ongoing health challenges, so unfortunate and certainly an impediment to enjoying retirement together.  Seventy one seems to be just too young, especially the closer we all get to those years. Just isn’t fair, is it?
I’m grateful to Dennis for introducing my brother to your sister - quite a successful matchmaker. He was a good friend and brother in law to Neil.
It is fortunate that Dennis got to experience Stephanie marry and have two children, and for them to have some photos with their grandfather to view in future. Stephanie is young to have lost her father. I feel for her.  No one knows what’s next, do they?
You also undertook a big move in the midst of Dennis’ health problems. Being closer to Stephanie seems like a good decision.
Laurie has expressed her wish that she could have continued to be close at hand for whenever you felt like having company. I do indeed hope you will come this way to visit with N&L and your mutual friends here. At that time I’d love to see you.
Thinking of you and extending sympathy from all my crew.  Hugs, Marianne

We often played as kids in Darmody. Dennis always had an adventure in mind-such as the time we lit some gunpowder at his grandparents homestead-didn't end well . Or the time we were listening to fiddle music on the way home in the mud and ended up stuck in the ditch and had to walk home. Dennis enjoyed the time spent in Eyebrow 4-H club showing calves and later for him horses. Many lasting friendships began at 4-H meetings. We went on a memorable double date  trip to a Roughriders football game in the summer of 1966.   
 As Wendel Berry writes it is fundamental for a person to know where they are from.  Dennis always reached out to me when he wanted to reconnect with his roots in Darmody. I will remember him as a fun loving good friend. 

We met Dennis and Valerie, after Stephanie & Jeremy started dating. It was actually quite funny, because both Dads are named Dennis Simpson. We laughed at all the similarities that both families shared. Dennis was quite the Chef and we shared a few meals that he had cooked, along with great conversations.
      He and Valerie welcomed Jeremy & us with Open Arms. Because of this we share a wonderful daughter and two beautiful grandchildren. 
       We will always remember Dennis…

I first met Dennis @ Sneaky Pete’s. He had arrived late and greeted us, as only Dennis could with a big smile, a twinkle in his eye and said, hi, I’m Dennis and I’m in #%#%. Needless to say that certainly broke the ice and we all had a good laugh. We will remember fondly our vacations to France, Portugal, Palm Springs, the many many dinner parties. Dennis always loved a good debate around the dinner table and even when they became “heated” usually after one too many libations 😉 all was forgotten the next day. Dennis was a kind, funny,  and generous man and he will be missed. 

Dennis was my Saskatchewan friend.  We had lots of laughs about growing up in rural Saskatchewan - like was he from Elbow or Eyebrow?  We always enjoyed the great meals served up at Dennis and Valerie's home along with lively conversation.  He fought a tough battle near the end but always with a positive attitude.  Our hearts go out to Valerie and family.
Ramona & Art

 My children, Makayla & Linden (5 & 3 yrs old), and I were  Denis & Valarie’s neighbour in Salish Estates in b North Vancouver for the last 10 yrs they lived there. 
 Valerie & I met in passing soon after moving in and she said she didn’t mind hearing children play. I knew right then we hit the neighbour jackpot! 
Denis & I crossed paths shortly after in the first snow fall in Dec 2012. He was friendly but quiet.  I as learned 8.5 yrs later, he was also the strong  silent fighting type. 
Denis and I were often outside on our decks tending to flower pots, hanging baskets, etc. that’s where I started to get to know the Denis. Our ‘hellos’ slowly turned into a few sentences and then conversations. He was always so positive. Even when I was complaining about a ‘party house’ that lived behind us. He’d have a very witty comment & observation about the situation. It may have involved a large amount of sarcasm lol. 
My kids remember shovelling their driveway & walkway a few winters ago. My kids love to help others so this was just a natural gesture. Well, Denis came out and gave them each a $20 bill. They tried to refuse the money but  Dennis insisted. That  is one memory that my kids have of Denis & his kindness & generosity.  The kids Subsequently wanted to shovel for them every time it snowed even only a couple of cms 😉. I think that was Denis’s plan!!
 I remember when Valerie told me about Dennis being due for surgery. And then the continuous updates of that time. She was so strong. He was so strong. You could clearly see the love they have for each other.  This is when I saw a string & silent man fighting with everything he had. He was so happy about his 2 grand children. . I am grateful my neighbours turned into friends…wish it had happened a few years earlier! Wine on the deck with laughs & conversation. 🥂
❤️‍🩹 We send you much love Valerie & Family during this very hard time. 
Denis is keeping his eyes on you all  I’m sure! 


Dennis was a genuine good-guy.   Always volunteering and ready to help.  We will remember our good travels, good golf, good wines, and great dinners.  And lively conversation - admittedly, he managed to change my way of thinking a few times.  We are very sad, and we will miss him.

“Uncle Densa “ as he was affectionately known by our two daughters in the mid 70’s . Dennis and I worked together in Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver encountering many frustrations and satisfactions and still remained the best of friends.In latter years he always called and we got together in Arizona during his many golf trips with the “ third amigo” , Archie.Both Donna and I enjoyed his many phone calls sharing his medical challenges .
 Truly my BFF , miss you buddy !
 Ross and Donna Pritchard 

Dennis was my best friend growing up in beautiful Darmody, Sask. In fact, we were born five months apart and our mothers discussed names and as it turned out, we both got the middle name Lyle. The Simpsons had cows and  I remember Dennis trying to teach me how to milk and pitch sheaves for the cattle. Many days we would go to his place for cookies and milk. We got into lots of trouble, too although I only saw his dad mad once when I was joyriding with Dennis in their family car and we ended up in a ditch half full of water near their yard. Great guy, rest in peace Buddy!

I have had so many great times  with Dennis. Our travels to Europe and countless wonderful dinners at his and Valeries home.
I loved a good discussion with Dennis, even tough we often disagreed. Still we remained close friends.  He had so many great stories to tell about his life on the farm as a child. Dennis was the most generous person I have known. He is at piece now. I will miss him.

We first met Dennis in 1980 at Sneaky Pete’s in Vancouver. He first comment was: I am Dennis, and I am in sh..
We had so many wonderful memories over the years, and have experienced several countries together. We will for ever cherish our time with Dennis. May he rest in peace. 

OBITUARY

Dennis Lyle Simpson

March 12, 1951 – May 29, 2022

Henderson's Langley Funeral Home

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