VIRGIL ALVIE SMITH

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VIRGIL ALVIE SMITH September 25, 1925 - August 19, 2007 With sincere sorrow, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved father and grandfather at the age of 81. Virg was born to Harry and Grace Smith in Vulcan, AB, and was predeceased by his sister, Verna, brothers, Jack and Merle and his wife, Margaret (nee Pickard) who died in 1994. He farmed in Vulcan until November 1944 when he enlisted in the Canadian Army (CFB Calgary). Returning from the war, he farmed in Poplar Point, MB (1952 to 1969), and later moved to Stony Mountain, MB, where he was Farm Manager at the Stony Mountain Penitentiary until retirement. He represented the Federal Penitentiary at national and international pistol and rifle competitions and was known to his counterparts as both an accomplished marksman and gunsmith. He excelled at, and had a passion for, hunting, fishing and farming and was active in such organizations as Ducks Unlimited, the Canadian Legion, and Canadian Rifle Association. Virg was a devoted and dedicated father to daughters, Janice Stoesz (Smith) and Gloria Jaggi (Smith), son-in-law Albert Jaggi, grandchildren, Jeffrey and Ian Stoesz, Amanda Sinclair and husband Darin Summerhays. Family and friends respected him in all aspects of his life as community leader, family man, hunter, fisherman, carpenter, mechanic and friend. He enjoyed curling, hockey, country music, poetry and a good western movie. His last years were spent at Bowview Manor in Calgary, AB, where he enjoyed friendships and the devoted care by the staff and volunteers. The family extends sincere gratitude to the genuine care and attention by the caregivers at the Bowview Manor. Respecting Virg's wishes, a private celebration of his life will take place in the near future. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to Ducks Unlimited Canada.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 24, 2007