SMITH, Donald Albert
April 22, 1929 to February 1, 2009
With heavy hearts we announce the passing of passing of Donald, after a frustrating battle with cancer. Born to Freda and A.L. Smith in Port Arthur (Thunder Bay). Raised in the Pearl St. neighborhood and attended P.A. Tech (Hillcrest High). Don and Phyllis Jean Norman, were married July 21, 1951 then traveled across Canada, Don working for Northern Electric (Nortel), moving every 2-3 months (13 times in 3 years). After joining Bell Canada, he transferred to Geraldton, where he developed a passion for fishing. A passion he took with him to B.C. after he retired. "Salmon trumps walleye" he would say. Don had a fondness for gardening. Mason jars and dried vines, soon replaced cars in the garage. Those who met Don, quickly realized he always strived to epitomize the example of Jesus Christ. The word "stranger" was not in his vocabulary. If he knew you, thought he knew you, or didn't know you at all, did not matter. Always the one to strike up the conversation, the smiling eyes, soft hand on the shoulder, and the eagerness to offer words of encouragement, to the point of giving "the shirt off of his back" will always be his legacy.
Don is survived by his wife of 58 years Phyllis, son David, daughter Kim, grandchildren Teal and Zachary Smith and the "sparkplug" of his life in these last years, granddaughter Adriana.
He is also survived by his sister Freda Nason. Don was predeceased by his parents Freda and Victor Tilson and his brother Albert Smith.
At his request there will be no service. A private dinner will be held.
On line condolences may be sent directly to his family at the following:
Phylkim@aol.com and
ddsmith@tbaytel.net.
Your thoughts, memories and stories about Don, will be much appreciated.
Any donations in Don's memory,
we ask be sent to your local chapter of The Canadian Cancer Society,
or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements entrusted with
A Simple Cremation 604-809-2006