Obituary of Richard David Smith

It is with great sadness that the family of Rick Smith announce his passing on June 3, 2023, at East Kootenay Regional Hospital in Cranbrook, BC.

 

Rick was born on October 30, 1945 in Geraldton, ON. He moved around as a child, finally settling in Cranbrook in 1958 with his twin brother Ron, where he spent the rest of his life. Rick was known for his strength, athleticism and hard work. He was always available to lend a helping hand and would happily take things apart in order to fix them and put them back together. Rick loved to make baked goods for others to enjoy. No one shovelled snow with the same determination as Rick and he willingly cleared snow for his neighbours. He enjoyed playing crib, cards, or board games, especially with his grandkids. He liked spending time in the vegetable garden or catching an old movie or detective show on TV. He was a fan the local hockey teams, curling and the Toronto Blue Jays.

 

Rick spent many years working at the sawmill for Crestbrook and then for Tembec. After retirement from the mill he and his wife Marianne worked for many years as caretakers of The Studio/Stage Door.

 

Rick was an incredibly kind, giving man whose positive attitude left a lasting impression on those who knew him. He was well loved and will be deeply missed.

 

Rick is survived by his children: Lee-Anne Franklin, Robert (Jennifer) Martini, Heather (Rob), Christine (Garrett) Mayne, Brian (Kendra) Smith; his sisters Eva Abraham, Carol Smith and Vivian Raposo; his brothers Ron (Bernice) Smith, Barry (Jayne) McKenzie; and by 11 grandchildren. He was predeceased by parents David Smith and Vera McKenzie and by his wife Marianne.

 

An informal gathering for family and friends to remember the lives of Rick and Marianne will take place Saturday, June 10th from 1 to 4 pm at The Studio, 11 11th Avenue South, Cranbrook, BC.

 

Donations on Rick’s behalf can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.