Obituary of Pamela Anne Simmons

It is with a heavy heart and great sadness we announce the sudden passing of Pamela Ann Simmons (Wilkes), on Sunday May 12, 2024 at the age of 66 years.

Pam will be lovingly remembered by her husband Wade, children Jim (Cindy) and Brittany, her brother Garry (Noreen) and her nieces and nephews. Pam was predeceased by her parents, Ross and Mary and her brother Victor. Pam was born April 3, 1958 in Kingston, ON. Coming from a military family, they moved to Camp Val Cartier, QC before settling in Winnipeg.

Pam was a strong individual, battling illness most of her life. Pam was diagnosed with Lupus in her twenties and daily lived with the many ups and downs that disease brings. The amazing thing about Pam was that you would never have known she lived with an autoimmune disease. No matter what life threw at her, she always continued with what she was doing, in her personal, professional, and Guiding life.

Pam was dedicated to her work as a First Aid and CPR instructor, believing that everyone should be educated to prevent injury from taking place or to help save a life. She ensured that each class she taught was directed towards the people in her classes and the lifestyles they led. She taught people of all ages and travelled around the entire province to provide educational experiences for all. Previously being a volunteer paramedic allowed her to bring real life experiences to her classes which people loved.

As an adult, Pam went back to school earning her BA in Theology from the University of Winnipeg, while still working and taking care of her family.

Pam joined Girl Guides as a child and just before her passing she earned her 45 year service pin. Pam promoted Girl Guides everywhere she went, always having cookies on hand and encouraging females of all ages to join the organization. During her time in Girl Guides she opened units in rural communities, travelled nationally and internationally with girls, was a member of Provincial council as Area Commissioner and Provincial Cookie Advisor, was a unit Guider in every branch level, and so much more. She always went above and beyond to ensure Guiding was a positive experience for everyone.

Pam never failed to amaze with what she was capable of even when it seemed everything was going against her. She loved camping, spending time with family and travelling. A handful of years ago Pam and her husband found a place in Mexico they loved, and Pam looked forward to going back every year.

Pam will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lupus Canada in Pam’s honour.

Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.