SMITH John

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Dad and Grandpa, John (“Jack”) Raymond Smith of Lethbridge, AB, previously of Ottawa and Perth, ON. He passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital, Lethbridge, AB, on Tuesday, September 25, 2012, at age 87 1/2.
He was the devoted husband of 55 years to the late Marlene Smith, who predeceased him on August 6, 2011, and whom he missed intensely. All who knew him were inspired by his dedicated care over 9 years as a devastating neurologic disease gradually claimed her life. He was a loving and involved father and grandfather to Julie Smith (Steve Kwan), Lethbridge, AB, and their children Andrea, Erin and James, and to Linda Smith (Jacques Galipeau), Atlanta, Georgia, and their children Alexandra and Max. He was predeceased by his parents, Sadie Rathwell and John Hunter Smith, and by his brothers, Roy and Harold.
Jack was born on March 27, 1925 in Perth, ON. He settled in Ottawa as a young adult and married Marlene there on May 12, 1956. He enjoyed a full and rewarding life and treasured lifelong and new friendships. Through dedication and perseverance, he earned his designation as a Registered Industrial Accountant/Certified Management Accountant. He worked for many years at Loeb, and then finished his career managing public accounts for the Federal Department of Health & Welfare. He was passionately involved in community groups including Good Companions and the St. Richard’s Anglican Church Men’s Club. He was proud of his award-winning garden, which he nurtured with Marlene. He loved to play pool and travelled extensively. At age 80, he made the difficult decision to relocate to Alberta, where for 7 years he shared his love, wisdom, companionship, humour, and medical adventures with Julie, Steve and their children. He so greatly appreciated the wonderful care and kindness he received while living his final years at the Edith Cavell Care Center.
As they wished, a joint funeral for Jack and Marlene will be held in Ottawa at a later date. We are also planning a celebration of their lives in Lethbridge, details TBA. For those who wish, memorial donations may be made in Jack’s name to the charity of your choice, or to the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation.
Condolences may be sent to www.mbfunerals.com or to smith-kwan@shaw.ca.
Martin Bros. Funeral Chapels Ltd.
610 – 4 Street South
Lethbridge, AB T1J 4P3
Phone: (403)328-2361 Fax: (403)382-3623
Toll Free: 1-800-382-2901
www.mbfunerals.com