Leanne Gail Simmons

1961-2014

With deep sadness, the family announces the passing of Leanne Simmons on Wednesday, April 30, 2014. After a brief illness, Leanne passed away in her sleep at the age of 52 years. Left to cherish her memory are her husband Mark Simmons, sons James Keller and Gary Keller, mother Anne Johnson, brother Darren Johnson and granddaughter Kayla Keller.

Leanne was born to Myron (1929-2011) and Anne Johnson on May 22, 1961 in Regina. She lived in Regina throughout her life. Leanne graduated from O’Neil High School in 1979. She continued her education while working and raising a family and received her degree in Business Administration at the University of Regina in 2002.

Leanne was married in 1980 and had two sons. James Keller was born in 1980, and Gary Keller was born in 1983. Leanne was devoted to her boys and supported their endeavours throughout their childhood and adolescence. As a lifelong sports enthusiast, Leanne was actively involved with the boys' participation in a variety of sports. James currently resides in Calgary and Gary lives in Regina. In 2007, Gary had a daughter, Kayla Keller. Leanne adored her granddaughter and the bond between them was truly wonderful. Many happy times were spent playing games and dressing up for fashion shows.

Leanne married Mark Simmons in 2011 at Franklin MB. Family and friends witnessed their happiness with certain knowledge that the couple's shared interests and devotion to family would be the basis of a strong and loving life together. Mark and Leanne enjoyed many exotic holidays and traveled extensively during their years together. They enjoyed spending time at their cabin at Clear Lake with family and friends during the summer. Everyone was welcome to be a part of Leanne's warm and generous hospitality.

Leanne enjoyed a variety of interests and hobbies, including music, painting, photography and cooking. She followed many sports, including golf, tennis and attending Rider games. Her creativity and individuality were expressed through art and music. Leanne also enjoyed reading, playing games and shopping. Leanne was very fond of animals. Her two cats named Eliza and Henry were very special to her and will miss her greatly.

Leanne started her career with SaskPower in 1981 and held various positions with increasing responsibility at SaskEnergy. Her most recent position was Manager of Customer Service, at TransGas Limited. Leanne was admired and respected by colleagues and her many friends at SaskEnergy.

Leanne was a very active volunteer, both at work and in her personal life. The list of her volunteer activities include the Regina Jazz Society (President 2009), Regina Food Bank (led SaskEnergy Annual Food Bank Drive, 2010), Grey Cup Regina (2003, 2013) and the Queen City Marathon.

Leanne Simmons embraced her life with passion and a devotion to family. She will be missed by all who were part of her world.

A celebration of Leanne’s life will be held on Friday, May 9, 2014 at 2:00pm at the Victoria Avenue Funeral Home. Condolences may be made online at www.victoriaavenuefuneral.com

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to the Regina Food Bank (http://reginafoodbank.ca/) or the Regina Cat Rescue (http://www.pfasask.com)

Arrangements under the direction of Victoria Avenue Funeral Home and Cremation, Regina, SK.