SEAN DESMOND SMITH

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SEAN DESMOND SMITH With great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Sean Desmond Smith on January 4, 2007 in Portage la Prairie, at the age of 84. Sean is survived by his children, Margo Lancaster (Bryan) of Winnipeg, Shane Smith (Laurie) of Portage la Prairie, Eileen Smith of Vernon, and Barry Smith (Mary) of Portage la Prairie. He is also survived by brother Aden and sister Mona both from Ireland. Sean was predeceased by his loving and amazing wife Olive and sisters, May, Josie, Bridie, Peggy, and brother Michael all from Ireland. Also he was predeceased by his son-in-law Rick Lancaster of Winnipeg. He will be lovingly remembered and missed by Darryl Lancaster (Chantal), Sean Lancaster, Megan Sloik (Rich), Karina (Trevor), Rory, Devon, Brendon, Shannay, Connor, and great-grandchildren, Noah and Neve. Sean was born July 1, 1922 in Belturbet, Ireland, the son of a saddle maker (James) and mother Margaret. Sean worked hard all his life starting as an apprentice butcher. He had a short career as a butcher because he refused to save the best cuts for the wealthy patrons, instead treating everyone at the counter the same. Following his career in meats he went on to work in a shoe factory for several years. But like many Irishmen of that time, with limited career opportunities in Ireland, he decided to immigrate to Canada to better himself. Sean left Ireland with the equivalent today of $20.00 in his pocket, and a ticket on the Queen Mary. His Canadian work experience took him to Canada's North Country Mayo, Yukon and Churchill, Manitoba where he raised his family. Sean made a career in power generation both with the Government of Canada and later with Manitoba Hydro. He retired in 1982 and moved to Winnipeg. In retirement Sean was never idle and spent hours doing woodwork which he loved and did well (even Shane's stupid little projects). A man of great character and a good judge of character Sean had the ability to speak volumes with few words. In fact sometimes his eyes said it all. With a mischievous glint in his eye he was quick with a joke and an Irish saying. He deeply loved his wife, family and extended Irish family. Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2007 at 11:00 am at Good Shepard Catholic Church, 1125 Saskatchewan Ave., Portage la Prairie with Father Michael Wollbaum officiating. As expressions of sympathy if friends so wish donations may be made in Sean's memory to Douglas Campbell Lodge, c/o Portage District General Hospital Foundation. A tree will be planted and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel 857-4021 www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 05, 2007