- Winnipeg Free Press Passages
- All Titles
Search:
Notices are posted by 10 am Monday through Saturday
DEREK ERNEST RICHARD SMITH
Date of Passing: Feb 26, 2017
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryDEREK ERNEST RICHARD SMITH 1937 - 2017 Derek E. R. Smith left this world suddenly, but peacefully, in his 80th year on Sunday, February 26, 2017 while on vacation in one of his favourite places, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Left to mourn his passing are his loving wife, Clare O'Brien, children: Cynthia (Keith McKinnon), Jennifer Lafrenière (Jean-Marc), Michael (Chanel); grandchildren; Andrea Lowe Davis (Jason), Stefanie Lowe, Nicolas Lafrenière, Luc Lafrenière and Cameron Jaquith; Clare's children: Owen Mooney (Susan) and Liz Desfosses (Jean), and grandchildren Elliot, Renee, Foster and Soleil. Derek is also survived by his sister, Eileen Hilton and extended family. He was predeceased by his parents Ernest and Elizabeth Smith. A first generation Canadian, Derek was born and raised in Montreal and graduated from Sir George Williams University. He worked in manufacturing for Canron and Ernst and Ernst Consulting. In 1973, Derek moved his family to Winnipeg where he worked for Inter-City Gas, was General Manager and Regional Director of the Royal Canadian Mint; President and CEO of the Manitoba Liquor Control Commission and Executive Director, Arts Stabilization Manitoba until his retirement. He gave much of his time to the volunteer sector with Civitan International and serving on the boards of many organizations including the Banff School of Advanced Management, St. Boniface Research Centre; St. Amant Centre; Manitoba and Canada Safety Councils; Junior Achievement; Winnipeg Youth Orchestra; Manitoba Arts Council; and the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra. Derek loved Winnipeg yet griped about the long, cold winters. His favourite place was his cottage in Ponemah where he spent many happy times during the warmer months. Derek will be missed by his family, his many colleagues and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to one of Derek's charities: Agape Table, Christian Children's Fund, Doctors Without Borders, or a charity of your choice. A memorial service to celebrate Derek's life will be announced at a later date. Rest in peace, Good Ol' Dad.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 04, 2017
Condolences & Memories (7 entries)
-
Derek and I met in early '70s when he became a valued consultant to a client of mine. More joint or accidental connections followed over the years. His reputation for wise and frank counseling was recognized by all, We typically met twice a year for 30 or so years, to prepare for and enjoy a friendship in retirement. I will miss him, and wish good memories and sincere condolences to his family. Ernie - Posted by: Ernie wehrle (Friend) on: Apr 09, 2017
-
We are so sorry for your loss! We will miss the many chats we had while out walking the dog and Cassie will miss the many treats she received when she saw the garage door open. Derek's absence will be greatly noticed in the neighbourhood. Sincerely Don, Maria, Jordon, and Taylor (The other Smith family) - Posted by: Don and Maria Smith (Neighbours) on: Mar 06, 2017
-
Dear Clare & Family, Just a word to express condolences to you and yours on your loss. My work experience with Derek was a positive one. I wish I had had the opportunity to know him more on a personal basis. Sincerely, Gérald ( Gerry ) Fontaine - Posted by: Gérald Fontaine (Former Work Associate- MLCC) on: Mar 06, 2017
-
I knew Derek when he was Master of the Winnipeg Mint, and then a member of the Manitoba Safety Council. I regretted losing touch with Derek in recent years (twenty-five or so!). Derek was the most balanced and reasonable manager I ever met. When negotiating, instead of starting from an extreme adversarial position, and then battling over the issues, Derek instead sought to collaborate to find a reasonable mutually- beneficial position. A wonderful man, whose passing saddens me. - Posted by: Ted Clarke (business acquaintance) on: Mar 05, 2017
-
Hello Clare and the Smith family, We are very saddened to hear of Derek's passing and wish to extend our sincere condolences on your loss. We will miss chatting with him over the fence and in the front yard. May he rest in peace. Sincerely, Steven & Tanis - Posted by: Tanis & Steven Thiessen (Neighbours) on: Mar 05, 2017
-
Dear Clare, we are saddened for you on the loss of Derek. You and yours are in our thoughts. Don and Joy (Palm Desert, Ca) - Posted by: Don Lussier () on: Mar 05, 2017
-
Hi Clare Our deepest sympathies on Derek s passing. I always enjoyed hearing his view of the world over our luncheons. I was always impressed at all the good Work he did for the charities that he was involved with. Our condolences (from Florida, ) Sincerely Bill & Kris - Posted by: Bill &a Kris Easton (Friend) on: Mar 04, 2017