GEORGE DONALD SMITH

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

GEORGE DONALD SMITH Our hearts ache at the loss of our husband, father, stepfather, father-in-law, brother, brother-in-law, and uncle, George Donald Smith after a long and courageous battle with cancer. George passed away early Tuesday, February 27, 2007 at home, surrounded by the loving care of his family. George leaves a legacy of memories shared by his loving wife Donna; son David; stepdaughter Dana (Stéphane); stepson Reid; sisters Gertie and Lillian (Albert); many nieces and nephews, plus numerous relatives and friends. George was predeceased by his parents Lydia and George and many aunts and uncles. Tragically, George was the tender age of three when he lost his father. As a result, he especially cherished every moment being a father to his son David. The arrival of Georgie in 1943 was a much-anticipated event for his parents and two sisters. The family made their home in the north end of Winnipeg where George spent his early years tormenting his doting sisters and challenging the educational system. George's tenacity and his continued need to challenge the establishment eventually led his career through a winding path; first as a power engineer, then as a Business Manager of the IUOE, followed by tenure as the Regional Representative/Negotiator for PIPS. Ultimately his skills and the respect garnered throughout his career led him to establish GD. Smith Associates; a business he successfully operated until October 2006. During his career George actively contributed to many labour organizations and councils serving as President of the Canadian Conference of Operating Engineers, as well as President of the Canadian Federation of Labour, Manitoba Council. Throughout his professional endeavours, he was known for his persistence, honesty, integrity, and his outstanding abilities in the art of negotiation. He loved a challenge and loved to support the underdog to win. As an added bonus, his career provided him with the opportunity to establish lifelong friendships with Lloyd Schreyer, Ernie Warkentin, Allan Rosky, Debbie Jenkins, Suzanne Hrynyk, Rick Wolfson as well as numerous other individuals. People gravitated towards George because of the strength of his convictions. His ability to share his life's experiences from the heart; find the positive in all situations; the talent to impart life lessons, his generosity of spirit, and unwavering faith, will undoubtedly leave a mark on all the lives he touched. George had an aura about him, rendering his positive attitude and generous spirit contagious. He met people with an open mind. He did not suffer fools easily, but he did not set others up to fail. He saw the whole person, not just their appearance, nor their occupation or their financial status. To his family, the true essence of George was captured in his quick wit and one liners and his engaging unpredictability and spontaneity. George could take a simple life event, such as crossing the U.S. border and transform it into a major adventure, creating many memorable experiences. His competitive spirit introduced his family to memorabilia collection and countless hours were spent together cheering on local sporting events including baseball, hockey, football, and curling. George and Donna enjoyed travelling together and found great pleasure in gardening, art and antiques. The way he coped with his illness was an inspiration to all. He faced each set back with determination, faith, and hope. He refused to give-in or give-up . George relied on the power of prayer and encouraged others to do the same. George's illness could not take away his faith, shatter his hope, or lessen his love for family and friends. His spirit and zest for life always remained intact. Cremation has taken place and there will be a private family interment. A celebration of George's life will be held Friday, March 2, 2007 at 3:00 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, 1311 Dakota St. with Pastor Dale Berg officiating. A reception to follow at Glen Lawn Funeral Home, 455 Lagimodière Blvd. from 4:30 p.m.. to 6:30 p.m. As expressions of sympathy, in lieu of flowers, donations are gratefully accepted by both Siloam Mission and Nova House Inc. to facilitate the creation of George's memorial Dare to Dream scholarship, to help break the cycle of violence for women and foster hope. Dare to Dream Education Fund in honour of George Smith Nova House Inc. (Domestic Violence for Women) Box 337 Selkirk, MB R1A 2B3 A very special thank you for the outstanding care extended to George over many years at CancerCare Manitoba. The personalized care guided by Dr. James Johnston and his team provided George with the confidence to face his multiple challenges. Through their true dedication, patience, compassion and care, the staff gave George inspiration. A special thank you to Erin Elphee for her professionalism and unwavering support to both George and Donna, as well as to Anne Katz for her wisdom and guidance. It is clear that God put you on this earth to impart your grace and knowledge to all those around you Arrangements entrusted to: GLEN LAWN FUNERAL HOME 455 LAGIMODIERE BLVD. 982-7550

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 01, 2007