Our beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Rae Simces, passed away on Wednesday, November 13, 2019, not quite reaching her 103rd birthday.
Rae is predeceased by her loving husband, William Simces, and her son-in-law, Bernard Vigod. She leaves behind a family that loves her dearly: Daughter, Zena Simces (Simon Rabkin) and Son, Neil Simces; Granddaughters, Simone Vigod (Daniel) and Michelle Vigod (Jonathan) and Grandson, Zev (Simces) Faintuch; Great Grandchildren, Abigail, Robert, Cole and Bari.
Rae was born on November 29, 1916 in Poland. She survived World War II by escaping to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, and made her way with her husband and their young child, who was born in a displaced persons camp in Linz Austria, to Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Rae was a woman ahead of her time in many ways. She believed that women had a role to play in society and the economy and encouraged her daughter and granddaughters to pursue higher education and contribute inside and outside the home.
She was totally devoted to her children. She loved her granddaughters and was so proud of their accomplishments. When her great grandchildren were born, they became the apples of her eye adding to the fulfillment of her life. She moved from Winnipeg, to Fredericton, to Toronto and finally to Vancouver to be close to her children and grandchildren.
She was generous and selfless, and when she gave her word, she was adamant about keeping it. She was feisty, and had a good sense of humour. Cooking, baking and sharing food were an integral part of her life. You could not go over to her house without her insisting that you have something to eat. She never went to visit anyone empty handed, she always brought food.
Several phrases from the poem – Eishet Chayil (Woman of Valor) – in the Book of Proverbs, describe her well:
Her worth is far beyond rubies She opens her hand to the needy And extends her hand to the poor She is clothed with strength and splendor She opens her mouth with wisdom Many women have done superbly But you surpass them all.
May her soul rest in peace and be reconnected with her beloved husband and soulmate.
