ERIC SYDNEY SMITH

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ERIC SYDNEY SMITH (Captain - Retired) Peacefully on Monday, August 29, 2011 at the Portage General Hospital, Eric Smith, passed away at the age of 85 years. Eric was the beloved husband of Evelyn for almost 60 years; father of Valerie, Noel (Leann), Pamela (Pierre), Shawn (Tami) and Thane (Shelley), grandfather of Erica, Andrew, Kyle, Devon, David, Jessica, Quinnton, Bradley, Holden, Kelsey and Damian; great-grandfather of Kayden. He is also survived by one sister Hilda Soderlund of Prince Albert, SK. Eric was a much loved brother, brother-in-law, uncle and friend. He was also a local historian, Veteran's Advocate and avid gardener. He especially loved family gatherings - the louder the better. Every day is Christmas when you folks are here. He never missed an opportunity to tell a good joke. Army Cadets was a huge part of his life, starting in high school, then CO #19 Army Cadet Corp and recently Honorary CO. The only interruption was his seven year service in the R.C.A.F. The Lancaster was his baby. When he came home in 1945, and until 1951 he was a Scout Master in Ontario and then continued in Portage la Prairie for another 14 years. During these years he started a 33 year career in the Post Office. He taught swimming, life-saving and scuba and was an examiner for the Red Cross in southern Manitoba. After retirement he worked at ManuFab and Provincial Security. He volunteered many years with the Fort LaReine Museum and the Portage Heritage Committee Eric was Grand Master for the Manitoba and North Dakota Oddfellows Lodge, Encampment, and Patriarchs Militant. His love for the young people everywhere was so evident in his willingness to teach and lead the future of his much loved Canada. At Eric's request, there will be no formal funeral service. If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, donations to the Kidney Foundation of Canada, Manitoba Branch, 730 Taylor Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3M 2K8 would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to: Ronald Moffit Memorial Services (204)856-3487

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 31, 2011