Simpkins, Daniel Wayne 'Dan'
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Daniel Simpkins on March 4, 2025, at the age of 83.
Born in 1941, Dan was the younger brother of Mary, and grew up in Etobicoke with their parents, Phoebe and Bernard Simpkins. He enjoyed a childhood full of imagination and adventure – roaming the banks of the Mimico Creek, slaying mythical creatures with his bow and arrow, and unearthing pirate treasures with his canine companion, Wags.
In 1966, he met his future wife, Fidela ‘Del’, at Toronto Public Health. They were married on June 8, 1968, and cherished 57 years together, raising their family in Brampton. Dan was the much-loved father of Luana Felato (David) and Jason Simpkins; beloved grandfather to Matthew and Dylan Felato; and uncle, great-uncle, and great-great-uncle to many nieces and nephews.
As a microbiologist, Dan worked in healthcare and was a long-term employee at Peel Memorial Hospital in Brampton. On weekends, the family enjoyed outdoor activities like camping, canoeing, and cross-country skiing. He had a life-long passion for running, entering various races, and completed two full marathons.
Dan was known for being a gentle soul and good listener, who was always there to support his family and friends. He enjoyed a good laugh and was often compared to “Cliff Clavin” for sharing facts and trivia, especially the origins of everyday expressions. He was a talented artist and woodworker, whose carvings and creations captured Canadian life and graced the homes of family members.
In 1998, retirement brought Dan and Del to the picturesque town of Meaford to embrace a slower pace of life and friendships along the Georgian Trail and Georgian Bay. He volunteered his talents to build theatre sets for the Meaford Hall and contributed to the beauty of the town through the Adopt-a-Garden initiative.
Dan believed that everything happened for a reason and would often say, “If it’s meant to be, it will be.” He will be greatly missed and forever remembered in our hearts.
A private celebration of Dan’s life will be held at a later date.
Special thanks and gratitude to the first responders and emergency room staff at the Meaford Hospital and the staff at Ferguson Funeral Home for their exemplary care and support.
As your expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Daniel to the Meaford Hospital Foundation or a charity of your choice would be appreciated and may be made through the Ferguson Funeral Home, 48 Boucher St. E., Meaford, ON N4L 1B9 to whom arrangements have been entrusted. www.fergusonfuneralhomes.ca
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Make a donation in memory of Daniel Wayne 'Dan' Simpkins
Donations: Meaford Hospital Foundation or a charity of your choice.Donate securely through Ferguson Funeral Home
Monday, March 10, 2025
Dear Del, my sincere condolences to you and your family. Treasure your memories, they will bring you comfort as you learn to navigate this chapter without your life’s partner by your side.
Marion Mower
Monday, March 10, 2025
Del and family,
Sorry to hear the sad news about Dan. He was a quiet man with many talents – his woodworking skills and perfectionist personality was evident in so many things he undertook. His knowledge of health and current affairs was endless. His subtle sense of humour will be greatly missed. Our condolences to you, however knowing you have so many shared memories will be of support at this difficult time.
Christine Codrington
Monday, March 10, 2025
Del, Sorry for your loss. You have friends if you need us. Mary
Monday, March 10, 2025
Del and family,
Please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of Dan. Having coffee with him over the years at Tim’s, I will always remember his deep knowledge of medical terms and useful diet information. Our conversations covered a multitude of subjects, always a news buff.
Rest in peace Dan, good memories.
David Port.
Monday, March 10, 2025
To Del and family, my sincere condolences for the passing of Dan. Your memories will bring you peace and comfort in the coming weeks, months and years.
Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Monday, March 10, 2025
Del & Family,
Know that we are thinking of you and trust that each day will bring you enough strength to cope as best you can. I always find humour in Dan’s mischievous smile with the twinkle in his eyes which always expose his quiet demeanour. We will also miss his presence at the table, enjoying the beautiful meals prepared by Del.
R.I.P Dan.
Monday, March 10, 2025
Dear Del, I am so sorry for your loss. I know you are suffering greatly. His loss has left a huge whole in your heart. Take each day slowly and give yourself the time to grieve with your family. I will keep you in my thoughts.
Kate Simpson
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Rest peacefully Uncle Dan and find comfort in the loving arms of our Lord.
May Tita Del and family gain enough strength to overcome the sorrow of losing Uncle Dan.
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Del, Luana and Jason.
We are so sorry to hear about loss of Dan. I fondly remember him from when I was a teenager for his calm and thoughtful demeanor and his amazing woodworking skills. I still have an art piece that he made for me over 40 years ago. Dan was a remarkable man who touched the lives of many, and his memory will always be cherished.
Julie Hawthorne Sommer
Tuesday, March 11, 2025
Rest peacefully Uncle Dan and find comfort in the loving arms of our Lord.
May Tita Del and family gain enough strength to overcome the sorrow of losing Uncle Dan.
With deepest sympathy.
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
Eternal rest grant unto Uncle Dan’s soul and may he rest in peace. He lived a fulfilling life loved by family and friends and people whose lives he touched. May the good Lord welcome you in your homecoming and may Tita Del, cousins Jayson and Luana, grandchildren and in laws be comforted in this difficult time.
Wednesday, March 12, 2025
So sorry for your loss Del, condolences to you and your family. Sometimes life throws us a curve, leaving the ones left behind to grieve. The Simpkin contribution to Adopt a garden was appreciated for sure. Take care.
Thursday, March 13, 2025
Dear Del
We were very saddened and shocked by Dan’s passing. Dan was a great Friend and we will miss him very much. He was very talented and had a great sense of humour. Our many get-togethers over the years were always very special. Our prayers and thoughts will be with you and your family during this difficult time and in the days to come.
Much Love
Shirley and Doug
Friday, March 14, 2025
Sincere condolences Del and family. Treasure your memories
Saturday, March 15, 2025
Del , luana and Jason, We are both shocked and saddened to lose such a dear friend, Ron and Dan go back a long way, two boys hanging out at Mimico Creek sailing their homemade boats, simple times. Ron will miss singing Harry Belafonte ‘s “Mama look a Boo Boo, many good times spent with you both, much love Ron and Pat.
Thursday, March 20, 2025
Dearest Del and family:
Ross and I are deeply saddened to hear of Dan’s passing! We always enjoyed our conversations with you both.
Please accept our most heartfelt condolences at this most sad of times! Hold your memories close and remember “ love never dies”! Much love Ruth Ann and Ross Kentner