Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1938
DIED
2025
Winnie Simmonds Obituary
Winnie Simmonds, a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and treasured friend, passed away peacefully on August 4th, 2025. She leaves behind a legacy of grace, strength, and boundless love.
Born on March 30, 1938, in San Francisco, California, Winnie was raised by her mother, Kathleen Bray Schwab, a dedicated schoolteacher who instilled in her the values of education, independence, and compassion. Winnie attended Oregon State College, now known as Oregon State University, where she met the love of her life, Donald Leroy Simmonds. Their union in 1957 marked the beginning of a beautiful 63-year marriage filled with adventure, laughter, and deep devotion until Don's passing in December 2020.
As a loving partner and homemaker, Winnie embraced life's journey with grace-whether living abroad in Germany during Don's Air Force service or settling into the warmth of California as he continued his career as a commercial pilot for American Airlines. Together, they raised four children in Huntington Beach and Bonsall, creating a home filled with love and joy. In retirement, Winnie and Don moved to Whitefish in 1991, then later built a house in Columbia Falls, Montana, where they found peace and beauty in the shadow of Glacier National Park.
Winnie was a force of nature-fiercely independent, strong-willed, and deeply caring. She found joy in the outdoors, hiking trails, traveling the world, and sharing quiet walks with her beloved dogs. Her love for entertaining and culinary skill made her home a hub of warmth and connection, where friends and family gathered for good food and even better company.
She is survived by her four children, Debbie (Mike) Ceciliani, Linda (Ernie) Wheeler, Suzanne (Jeff) West, and Paul (Gina) Simmonds; her nine grandchildren-Ryan and Rachael Ceciliani, E.J., Rebecca and Shannon Wheeler, Hunter and Hannah West, Cole and Grant Simmonds; and five great-grandchildren-Henry and Rose Ceciliani, Willow Wheeler, Brynn Simmonds, and Parker West, with one more blessing due in December 2025. Winnie was predeceased by her husband, Don, and her mother, Kathleen.
Winnie's life was full, and she touched so many. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her and in the legacy of kindness, resilience and the joy she leaves behind.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Winnie Simmonds
1 Entry
Jane Hammett
August 15, 2025
I met Winnie and Don through my sister. They were all members of the "West Glacier wine tasting club." I remember a lovely snowy evening enjoying vino in their lovely mountain home. We enjoyed some picnics together on the shores of Lake Mcdonald, following mass at the amphitheater.
I recall being in the beautiful lobby of the Many Glacier Hotel in Glacier Ntl Park and Winnie and Don came through the door looking like drowned rats giggling. They had just finished a hike into Cracker Lake. She was a true pepper pot!! I loved her zest for life and her quick wit. I loved hearing her stories about driving their huge motorhome!! Don was a gentle soul by her side and so soft spoken. Such a lovely couple. They've been missed in Montana. RIP. My sincere condolences.
Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results
Make a Donation
in Winnie Simmonds's name
Memorial Events
for Winnie Simmonds
How to support Winnie's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Winnie Simmonds's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
