Obituary of Desmond Smith

Desmond M. Smith 1927 - 2011 With great sadness we announce the passing of Desmond on August 5, 2011 after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Bristol, England on March 25, 1927, Des came to Canada in 1951 and began his 40 year career at Fleet Industries in Fort Erie. There he met Theresia, his beloved wife of 57 years. Together they raised and loved their children Peter (Eva), Susan (Mike) and Stephen (Daphne). He was enormously proud of his grandchildren Gregory, Katherine, Robert, Caroline, Kevin, Sarah, Eric, Holly, Martin, Christian and Alastair and will be deeply missed by them all. Des was predeceased by his parents, his brother Brian and infant granddaughter Mary Lisa. Des will also be missed by his brother Paul (Mary), nieces and cousins in England, and his family in Austria and Switzerland. Des enjoyed a full and active life. He was an avid sailor, bridge player and past president of the Fort Erie Lions Club. A world traveller, he shared many adventures with Tessie and their friends. He passed on his love of reading to each of his children and grandchildren. Des will be remembered for his quiet dignity, wisdom, wit and the twinkle in his eyes. For their excellent care, the Smith family thanks Dr. Gleeson and staff, Kim Willweith, Pat Eberly and the palliative care nurses of St. Elizabeth, and staff of the Canadian Red Cross. Special thanks to his granddaughter Caroline for her loving and attentive care. Benner Funeral Services, 1105 Benner Ave., Fort Erie entrusted with arrangements. The family will receive friends on Monday from 2-4 & 7-9. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church on Tuesday morning at 11 o’clock. Cremation to follow. Vigil prayers to be offered in the funeral home on Monday afternoon at 3:30. If so wished, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation.