MRS. HENRICA SIMMONS of Lethbridge formerly of Coalhurst, beloved wife of Mr. Gordon Simmons, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 19, 2012 at the age of 84 years.

Rica (Henrica Aben) Simmons was born on June 14, 1928 at Crystal Lake, AB. She was the third of nine children. On May 30, 1945 she married the love of her life Gordon Lloyde Simmons and had seven wonderful kids; six daughters and one son. They farmed in the Park Lake and Shaugnessy area until 1976. Upon moving to Lethbridge, her love of caring for children convinced her to open a Day Home. The day home grew to become Rica's Daycare (Coalhurst, AB) which continued to be a place filled with laughter and love. She was Gramma to many children during those years.

Upon retiring, they moved to an acreage near Coaldale and lived closely with their youngest daughter Elaine (Cliff) Lutz. Rica enjoyed cooking and baking, gardening, knitting and sewing. She enjoyed sharing these skills and teaching others very much. Rica was also very diligent and through in all her church callings, and doing service whenever needed. She loved sharing the spirit of God and was always loving and supportive to all family and friends.

Rica is survived by five daughters Marian Seaborn, Linda Ment, Fay (Lloyd) Jorgensen, Velma ""Val"" Bullied (David Orleski) and Elaine (Cliff) Lutz; son Lloyde (Dalisay) Simmons; 11 grandchildren; and 6 great-grandchildren.

Besides her beloved husband Gordon, Rica was predeceased by her parents Antonia and Martin Aben and daughter Lydia Lorraine Simmons.

Family and friends are invited to meet the family between 10:00 am and 10:45 am followed by the Funeral Service at 11:00 am on Saturday, December 22, 2012 at the CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS, 2223 - 6A Ave North, Lethbridge, with Bishop Les Gugyelka officiating. Interment to follow in the Archmount Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donation may be made to S.T.A.R.S., PO Box 570, 1441 Aviation Park NE, Calgary, AB T2E 8M7.