DAVID EDWARD SMITH

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DAVID EDWARD SMITH October 19, 1921 - July 21, 2013 It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father and grandfather, David at the Riverview Health Centre with family at his side. Predeceased by his beloved first wife Monina (née Casey) in 1989 and later Joyce in 2011, David is survived by his five children: Stephen (Somkit), David, Tim (Nelly), Shaunagh (Laurie), Marianne (Peter); grandchildren Shannon (Doug), John-Paul (Lucy), Patrick, Thomas, and Céline; brother-in-law Stephen Casey (Emilia), and many nieces and nephews. He will be especially missed by his dear friend Mrs. Nita Whitehouse. Dad was born and raised in Winnipeg, an only child of David M. Smith and Elizabeth Smith (née McCarron) of Toronto. Dad grew up on Brock Street in Winnipeg and received his education at St. Ignatius School and St. Paul's High School. Dad's early career was in the banking and stationery business until he took over his father's business and created David E. Smith Agencies. As an independent businessman, Dad loved and excelled in the world of sales, most prominently in the brewery and confectionery industries. During this time, marriage to our beloved mother Monina followed by a family of five children kept Dad and Mom busy over the years. Dad worked hard to provide for his large family and to enable private Catholic education for his children. Upon Dad's retirement in 1987 he turned the company over to his son Stephen. Subsequent to that Dad came out of retirement as he was sought out as the Canadian sales manager of a two-person biotech science company which went on to became an international corporation employing over 4000 people. Dad was very proud to be at the forefront of this successful operation. Our family home on Kingsway Avenue was the 20 year setting of our fondest memories. Idyllic summers at our Winnipeg Beach cottage were a welcome diversion as well as many family camping trips across Canada. Later in life Mom and Dad vacationed in Palm Desert where they spent winter months golfing and visiting with their many Winnipeg friends. With family downsizing, Dad and Mom moved to Grenfell Boulevard where they began life anew as empty-nesters, filled with many happy years until Mom's passing. Dad's next residence was The Wellington where he joined many of his old-time friends. Dad enjoyed all the social aspects as well as continuing with his life-time love of both bridge and cribbage. Dad was also an avid golfer at Southwood Golf and Country Club, serving as President and was awarded with an Honorary Lifetime Membership for his many contributions. Richly rooted in his faith, Dad was an excellent provider for his family at all levels, most importantly teaching us how to love. Dad witnessed his faith, not in sailing through life without hardships or challenges, but hanging on tightly to what anchored him, his faith in God's love. Dad carefully cultivated his many friends and business associates, always governing himself with a deep sense of honour, gratitude, and humility. Dad found joy in all aspects of life and shared it with all of us. His devoted love and warmth toward his family, along with his sense of humour and a hearty laugh are legendary. Dad had a very special place in his heart for his grandchildren, not only spending time mentoring them but also providing financial assistance in their university pursuits, which he had the foresight to begin at their births. They loved their PéPère and Dad loved them. The family expresses gratitude to Susan Siamandas (who always made sure Dad made it to church on time!), the staff at The Wellington, Misericordia Health Centre, The Riverview Health Centre, and granddaughter Shannon and Jen for their loving care. And the most special thanks go to our dear sister Marianne who selflessly for many years took the greatest care of our father. A tireless advocate, a dedicated, caring and loving daughter Marianne spent countless hours making sure Dad had the best care possible. Time to take a rest, Mame. Dad never had an unkind thing to say about anyone, ever. He was a true gentleman and a gentle man. Funeral Mass of the Resurrection to be held Thursday, August 1 at 10:30 a.m., St. John Brebeuf Church, 1707 John Brebeuf Place, (Renfrew between Grant and Corydon) with Celebrant Rev. Mark Tarrant. A private family interment will take place at St. Mary's Cemetery where Dad will be joining his beloved wife and our mother, Monina. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to The St. John Brebeuf School Bursary Fund or Siloam Mission. ETERNAL rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen. The Coutu Family in care of arrangements: E.J. COUTU & CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS 680 Archibald Street 204-253-5086 ejcoutu.com
Publish Date: Jul 27, 2013

DAVID EDWARD SMITH It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David E. Smith, formerly of Grenfell Blvd. on Sunday, July 21, 2013 at the age of 91 years. Funeral arrangements are pending and a longer obituary will follow. The Coutu Family in care of arrangements: E.J. COUTU & CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS 680 Archibald Street 204-253-5086
Publish Date: Jul 23, 2013

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 27, 2013