Tove Marie Simonsen
January 29, 2020
Slipped away peacefully in her 100th year, on Wednesday, January 29th, 2020, Tove Marie Simonsen, of London, Ontario, at Strathroy-Middlesex General Hospital while her family wasn’t looking, so as not to make a fuss. Born in Copenhagen, Denmark on October 30th, 1920 to Thora and Erik Alling, Tove achieved fame at the age of seven when, after breaking Mom’s prized teacup, she ran away with brother Egon, pushing a baby stroller down the Danish coast and stirring a nationwide hunt which later became the subject of a popular play (she was not allowed to see it). As Tove’s mother endured an unpreferred stay in a concentration camp, the best of many trials in occupied Denmark for Tove was the birth of cherished daughter Anne (Harry Martindale) in 1944. In 1957, she and the love of her life, Karlo Simonsen, struck out for the wilds of Canada, finally settling in Byron, where Tove lived for another 60 years. She worked in Eaton’s camera department downtown, but Karlo’s career with Northern Telecom meant decades of world travel, while still being heavily involved in London’s Danish expat community. Tove eventually became the adored “Nannie” to grandchildren Rod Keith and Leanne Sexton, and great-grandchildren Jason, Jacob, Nathaniel, ToviAnne, Jasper and Mia. However, her kindness, good humour, and easy charm made her beloved by all, creating friends across all walks of life. Tove’s indomitable positivity surmounted many health crises that would have felled a football team, and she enjoyed nearly 30 years of vigorous independent living beyond her husband’s passing, before complications from a recent fall required residence at Strathmere Lodge in Strathroy, where staff and residents quickly grew to love her too. Tove now goes to join a century of friends and family before her, but she leaves behind many wonderful memories for us here. A visitation for Tove will be held at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, on Wednesday, February 5, 2020 from 7:00 ~ 9:00 p.m. A private inurnment at Mount Pleasant Cemetery will be held at a later date. Donations in lieu of flowers to the Canadian Cancer Society are appreciated.
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Im so sad that this day have come....😢 on the other hand im glad that she is now with Karlo, her brother Egon, and her mom and dad Thora and Erik after a long and wonderful life. To know her was to love her, and she brought so much joy and happiness into the lives of the people she met...Im so sad that im unable to attend the memorial, but you are all in my thoughts and heart, and i send all my love to my canadien family â¤ï¸â¤ï¸ðŸ‡¨ðŸ‡¦ðŸ‡¨ðŸ‡¦ðŸ‡©ðŸ‡°ðŸ‡©ðŸ‡°
I was so impressed that she, then in her 90's, was game to go to Under the Volcano for Mexican food after we saw a play together. She was happy to be surrounded by her family and to meet new friends. She was present and very much a contribution to the evening! I'm so happy I got to meet such an amazing woman!
Anne, we are so sorry to hear of the passing of your mum and pray that all the warm and special memories you shared with her stay with you and bring you comfort.
We have just lost an incredible human being, our Tante 'Tulle'. The loss is unbearable and she will remain in our hearts forever. Her appetite for life, great sense of humor, joy of music and positive approach to life has taught us all four a lot - which we will carry with us through our lives. She has been a great inspiration and we miss her so much that words can't even describe. Despite the long physical distances between Denmark, Dubai and Canada we have always felt a true and close connection with her. We celebrated Christmas together in 2017 in London ON and just 6 weeks ago Jerry went to Canada to visit our beloved 'Tulle' at Strathmere Lodge in Strathroy. On the last day at the nursing home they were singing "We'll meet again" - thanks for everything Tante 'Tulle' - your legacy will forever be in our memory and the love will stay in our hearts. Annie, Jerry, Oliver & Liisi
Dear Anne and Family, We were sorry to hear that Tove's quick chuckle and laugh are no longer with us. She was greatly admired for her fierce independence which is a lesson to all of us ...do not give up . The memories are all good and we are going to remember her fondly . We are so sorry that we are unable to attend the visitation but we will be thinking of you. Tony, Lene & Lesley
(Donated to Canadian Cancer Society)
(Donated to Canadian Cancer Society)
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Rod , Anne & family....what a lovely, heartfelt tribute to the wonderful woman you were blessed to know as "mom" & "grandma". I often heard Rod speak of his grandmother & saw his love & respect for her when he shared stories of her. I know you will find comfort in your memories of times with her & I know she will be forever remembered. My condolences to the entire family.
~ Anne English