Stimson – Rick Lynn Stimson of Gem, beloved husband of Brenda Stimson, passed away at his home on Saturday, September 3, 2022 at the age of 62 years. Rick was born on April 2, 1960 in Medicine Hat, Alberta. He was raised on a farm in the Brooks-Duchess area and attended the Duchess school. In 1981, Rick moved to Gem to start his own farm and ranch operation. Rick wore many hats, from sitting on many boards and community committees to being the unofficial “Mayor of the Flats” to curling instructor, 4H leader, coach, and involved member of the community in any and all capacities. But the greatest titles he carried were husband, Dad, brother, uncle, neighbor and friend. Rick married Brenda Horner on October 2, 1993. They welcomed twin girls Sarah and Shannon in 1995 and a son, Scott, in 1997. His family was his everything. He never missed a school event, a sports game, a 4H event, music recital, or a moment to teach and pour wisdom into his children. This same love was shared amongst all his nieces and nephews as well as the local neighbor kids. A social butterfly, Rick loved to visit and share laughs with everyone. In recent years, he became known for his mid afternoon nachos and margaritas. His great nieces and nephews came to expect a kid-friendly margarita anytime they had a visit- whether at the house, the campground, or in Hawaii. He was passionate about community and was an integral part of the success of many community initiatives and events. Rick volunteered his time as a firefighter for many years. He always ensured there was an outdoor rink for the kids to skate on and ice in the curling rink for leagues and bonspiels. He was also an avid hockey player for many years with the Gem Generals. Rick truly lived a life of significance. There is not a person he met who he didn’t have a positive impact on. He lived life true to his values and was not shy to stand up for what he believed was right. His sudden passing has left an unfillable hole in his family and in his community. A man as special as Rick will be deeply missed by so many, but his legacy will live on amongst all of us for generations. Rick was predeceased by his parents, George and Christina Stimson and sister Judy. He is survived by his loving wife Brenda and their three children: Sarah (Jake) Simkins, Shannon Stimson, Scott Stimson; siblings: Dale (Tess) Stimson, Jim (Jodi) Stimson, Pat (Brad) Rooke, Sue (Terry) Shrader, brother-in-law Darcy (Donna) Robb; nephews and nieces: Tracy O’Hara, Kelly Needham, Troy (Kristi) Stimson, Shawn (Kim) Stimson, Tiffany Stimson, Taylor Stimson, Josyln Stimson, Calvin (Catherine) Rooke, Carrie (Pete) Gronemeyer, Gwen (Ryan) Thompson, Kim (Robbi) Weldon, Rodney (Chelsea) Opperman, Christie Opperman and numerous great nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Gem Mennonite Church on Thursday, September 15 at 2:00 PM followed by a reception at the Gem Community Hall. Casual dress with a Hawaiian shirt is encouraged. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of the charities close to Rick’s heart.
The Ronald McDonald House
https://rmhcalberta.org/donate/
Camp Evergreen
https://www.camp-evergreen.com/donate
Alzheimer’s Association
The Do More Agriculture Foundation
Cremation is entrusted to and conducted at
Smith Funeral Home Ltd. and Crematorium, Brooks
Funeral arrangements entrusted to:
SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD. AND CREMATORIUM
BROOKS, ALBERTA
Condolences may be forwarded through www.sfh.ca
Telephone 403-362-4636 or Toll Free 866-362-4652
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