GREGORY L. SMITH

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GREGORY L. SMITH April 11, 1950 - October 7, 2011 Passed away peacefully at home with his family following a very courageous battle with cancer. Greg was born in Winnipeg where he lived his life fully each and every day. Greg attended school in East Kildonan, an A student. He completed his Agricultural Diploma at the University of Manitoba in 1981 and was awarded the Dean's Honour Roll. When young he spent his summers on the Fisher farm in Hazelridge. As a teen he was involved with the YMCA - lifeguard, camp counsellor and swimming instructor. He worked for Manitoba Mines and Natural Resources beginning in the summer of 1968 as a geological assistant. He worked in Northern Manitoba and Quebec. Greg began his career in landscaping in the 1970s, initially working at Kackenhoff Nursery followed by Shelmerdine Nursery where he was employed for 30 years as a landscape supervisor. Many of the city's parks, roadways, playgrounds and sports fields reflect Greg's expertise and attention. Survived by his loving wife Lucy, Denise Vandel (daughter) and Selwyn Jones, Trystan and Sophie (grandchildren), Damien Vandel (son) and Cassandra Vandel, Jean Hansen (mother), Wanda Smith (sister) and Gordon Hopper, Laurie (Brent) Skene and Lynda Henderson (stepsisters) and their families. Predeceased by his father Ernest Smith and stepfather Victor Hansen. Greg had many interests and adventures: He loved touring, his favourite spots were British Columbia and California. He had a passion for golfing, skiing and snowboarding. In times past he enjoyed motorcycles, in particular the Harley. Trips to Tamarac Lodge were a highlight. Throughout his life Greg especially enjoyed his time with friends of whom he had many. Family dinners at Greg and Lucy's home had become a tradition. And, Greg so loved his pets Tasha and Mojo. We will remember Greg as good natured with a positive attitude on life, always. His generosity towards others was one of his strongest qualities. His joie de vivre touched us all. Many thanks to the staff at Grace Hospital Grace Cancer Care and Dr. P. Harris, the ER staff and the Palliative Care Team who responded so promptly when we needed them. As well, many thanks to Dr. J. Lipschitz and staff. Greg had utmost respect and faith in his health care team. Thank you. Memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 15 at 2:00 p.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg. Given Greg's love of animals in lieu of flowers you may forward donations to the Winnipeg Humane Society. For those who wish to sign the online Guest Book please visit our website. Chapel Lawn www.chapellawn.mb.ca 885-9715

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 12, 2011