JOHN ISAAC SMITH

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JOHN ISAAC SMITH January 2, 1925 - February 13, 2006 Peacefully, John Isaac Smith passed away at Concordia Hospital at the age of 81. He was predeceased by his parents, Walter and Rebecca Smith and his wife Bernice (nee Dolenko). John will be sadly missed by his sons, David, Mark (Sabrina), Gregory (Ruthanne); granddaughter Jessica, numerous other family members, friends and good friend Francis Petaski and her family. John was born and raised in Winnipeg's west end. He had a special relationship with his father and chose to follow in his footsteps by enlisting in the military. John trained in Canada and then faithfully served overseas (including in occupied Germany) for the Canadian Air Force during the Seocnd World War. Upon returning home, John worked for Air Canada/Cara foods where he met his wife Bernice. They married in 1962 and immediately started a family. Their life in Winnipeg's north end was filled with many cherished moments together, especially those surrounding their three children. Tragically, in 1987, Bernice's premature passing left John with the challenge of not only working full-time at the Health Sciences Centre (dietetics and security departments), but also providing double-duty at home as the sole care provider for his sons. His sons are and shall be forever grateful to him for his selfless dedication to family. He also instilled in his children the values of respecting and serving others, hard work and education and was proud of each of their accomplishments. In recent years, John found companionship with those at his residential complex in North Kildonan, particularly his good friend Francis Petaski. He spoke very highly of Francis and her family and was graciously welcomed by them. John enjoyed taking Francis for drives, including scenic River Road to Lockport for a snack, or enjoying a good movie together. He enjoyed his meeting place at the Garden City Shopping Centre coffee club where he could often be heard discussing current events and telling jokes. John loved golfing and was most proud of his relatively recent hole-in-one. He could often be found reading, gardening or lending a neighbour a helping hand. He loved children and always possessed a special treat in his pocket to share. Some of his most cherished moments were those of family vacations in California, North Dakota (Grand Forks), Toronto/London, Clear Lake and Winnipeg Beach. Throughout his illness he still maintained his sense of humour, waving a fist now and again when a nurse was trying to give him his medication. We wish to thank Drs. Gorski and Duerksen, and the caring, compassionate staff of unit N1 North at Concordia Hospital for all the small touches that made each day that much better. A private service will be held on February 17 to celebrate his life. Pallbearers will be David Smith, Mark Smith, Gregory Smith, Randy Van Vliet, Brion Dolenko and David Skromeda. Honorary pallbearer shall be Julian Van Vliet. Officiant: Reverend Allan Armstrong. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John's honour to CancerCare Manitoba. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 16, 2006