Obituary of Ian Bernard Simms

Ian Bernard Simms of Toronto, Ontario died on Friday, January 25, 2019, aged 74 years. He was beloved by his daughters Lindsey and Jessica, and his cat George.

Ian was born on Wednesday, September 20, 1944, in Perth, Scotland. He immigrated to Canada in 1946, arriving in Halifax before moving to Winnipeg and then settling in Toronto.

Ian held a special affinity with the natural world, and was a naturalist at heart. He was a lover of birds, and could recognize diverse species and varieties by both sight and song. He was touched by each migration, and he delighted every year in Spring’s first robin. Ian also loved long walks in the bush, and found solace in listening and watching nature just be. He shared this with his daughters, taking them to High Park to bird watch and fish, to hike and play, and to observe and listen. Later in his life, he enjoyed walking through the Brick Works, finding joy in the revitalization of the quarry and the return of the trees, wildflowers and birds.

Ian was also a man who was deeply offended by injustice inflicted on the marginalized, be it people, animals, wetlands, rivers or seas. He imparted this spirit to his daughters who will try to carry it forward through action and with love.

Ian was cremated on Sunday 27 January, a beautiful clear day in Toronto. His daughters take comfort in knowing that he will always be with them. He is in the red-tailed hawk soaring over the Don Valley, the cardinal calling through the trees, the orange horizon at dawn, and the bend of the reeds with the wind.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Ian’s name to Evergreen Brick Works so that this important green space in the heart of Toronto can continue to flourish.