FRANK GARNETT SMALE

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FRANK GARNETT SMALE On June 12, 2010, Frank Smale passed away quickly and peacefully at St. Boniface Hospital at the age of 91. Dad was born in Neepawa, MB on April 4, 1919 to Herb and Alice Smale. His father was a section foreman for CP Rail and Dad was raised with his siblings in a section house in Arden, MB. This instilled in him a lifelong passion and great knowledge of steam locomotives. He had many stories to tell about life in a small town, from jam pail curling on the Whitemud River as a young boy to almost accidentally burning down the family home. He always had a Chesapeake retriever or a collie by his side. As a young man, he moved to Winnipeg and was employed at Dominion Electric Protection Co. (later ADT) as an electrician and inspector for many years until his retirement at the age of 65. He married our Mom, Reta Russell, in 1944 and they raised their family in St. Vital. Dad loved baseball, and was a die-hard Red Sox fan to the end of his days. He coached his son Bruce's baseball team and it was more important to him to make sure every kid got a chance to play than to win the game. He also had a great love of classical music, and was often at the piano composing his own pieces. Mom and Dad loved to travel and took many trips together. They also spent time at their cabin at Lakeshore Heights. After retirement Dad enjoyed meeting his teammates to curl at Rossmere Curling Club. Dad was predeceased by Reta, his wife of 52 years, sisters Laura Spackman and Esther Weber, and brother Bill. Left to cherish his memory are his daughters Barbara (Lloyd) and Beverley Giroux, son Bruce, grandsons: Brendan, Ian (Sarah), Mark and Evan, their dad Ed Giroux, Ryan and Kyle and great-grandson Austin, as well as his sister Marian Holland, special friend Phyllis Vidruk and numerous nieces and nephews. Dad lived the last two years of his life at Thorvaldson Care Centre. Many thanks to the staff for their kindness and support. We would also like to thank the staff on 6E at St. Boniface for their compassionate care of our Dad during his last days. At Dad's request there will be no funeral. A private family graveside service and interment will take place in Russell, MB at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, 6 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB R3L 0K6. ... Hey, who blew out the candle? Don't be afraid', said Death, It was only a draft from the door. Come outside and pick yourself a star.' - G. Sewell We love you Dad. The Coutu family in care of arrangements: E. J. COUTU CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS 680 Archibald St. 253-5086

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 19, 2010