JIM SMITH

1949 ~ JIM SMITH ~ 2023
It is with great sadness that the family of Jim Smith announce his passing at the Riverview Care Centre, on April 21, 2023 at the age of 73 years. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 49 years, Dorothy Lee; his children, Andrew, Matthew (Jamie) and Suzy (Graham). Jim also leaves four beloved grandchildren, Ryan, Adam, Hannah and Henry. In addition he is survived by his brother, Dennis (Yvonne); sister, Leila (Brian); several nephews and great niece. Jim was born on November 4, 1949 in Brandon, Manitoba. After earning a Bachelor of Teaching degree from Brandon University, Jim spent one year in Northern Manitoba teaching Physical Education and English at the Junior High level. After that year, Jim commenced his career with the YMCA that would span 41 years. Jim had been a Y member ever since he was young. He advanced through the YMCA Leadership Programs throughout Junior and Senior High School, building skills that he would utilize throughout his career. Jim held various positions with the YMCA’s in Brandon (MB) and London (ON) until accepting the position of Executive Director with the Medicine Hat YMCA in 1981. Over the next 33 years, Jim worked along side the team at the YMCA, Board of Directors, the City of Medicine Hat, the Province of Alberta and other key stake holders in the community on a variety of initiatives. These included expanding the main facility, constructing a new facility in Southridge and setting up various community programs such as day cares, youth education and career development services. He also fulfilled interim management roles at the Fort McMurray and Lethbridge YMCA’s during his career. SCUBA diving was another important part of Jim’s life. Beginning in 1974, he was an avid diver, became an instructor and taught many students over the years. The Smith family would like to thank the staff at Masterpiece SL4D for providing a kind, caring and friendly environment for Jim over the last two years. The family would also like to thank the staff at Riverview’s Massey-Beaverbrook Unit for their loving care during his short stay at their facility. A family memorial service will be held this summer at Jim’s beloved Clear Lake (Riding Mountain National Park, MB), the place he always wanted to be. If so desired, a charitable donation can be made in Jim’s name to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, 201, 770 6th Street SW, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 4J6 or a charity of one’s choice. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Jim Smith. Funeral arrangements by

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