WILLIAM (BILL) T. SMITH

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WILLIAM (BILL) THOMAS SMITH

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Dad, William (Bill) Thomas Smith on June 26, 2021. After a long, courageous battle with cancer he is now on a new journey.
Bill was born on January 8, 1943 in Hamilton, Ontario. In his late teens he began painting houses in Winnipeg. In his late 20s he moved to California. Bill was in the painting and coatings industry for over 43 years. In his 30s he started WTS Coatings Company. Although his work throughout North America included many contracts of note (including steeplejacking many skyscrapers, painting the famous Spruce Goose, various oil rigs, innumerable housing tracts and commercial buildings), his unique reputation for historic restoration processes, the blending and uses of special wood varnishes, stains and lacquers, made him the reigning expert in this field in San Diego. Later in life he turned his artistry to creating stunning abstract and scenic paintings, many which adorn our walls.
He had an artistic eye but his first passion was Skydiving. For 14 years he was a world class sport parachutist, culminating in his position as team leader of the Canadian Parachute Team competing for the world titles in 1976 in Yugoslavia and in 1978 in Italy. He had over 1100 jumps, was a jumpmaster, trainer and rigger. He also mastered the sport of archery winning many first place awards.
Bill will lovingly be remembered by his four children: Lance Smith (Bev), Kelly Smith (Tracy), Kimberly Smith (Darrell), Pamela Juneau (Blake), stepdaughter Monique Heieie (Brad); grandchildren: Hevyn-Lee, Aaryn, Benjamin, Olivia, Dominic and Evan. He has forever touched the heart of Rita, his spouse of 43 years. He is forever missed by his siblings: Patricia Smith (Rick), Candace Smith, Frank Smith, (Toni) and Dennis Smith (Vicki). We will cherish and hold dear to our hearts many warm, happy memories.
Bill, everyone who knew you will never forget how you, in your own unique way, touched everyone with a special kindness, the utmost integrity, your wicked, irreverent sense of humour and impeccable honesty. You were truly a man's man who will forever be missed.

Look up and wave! Dad is flying
free in the sky watching over us.
We will love you forever, Dad!

Condolences may be left on
William's Memorial Page at: www.interlakecremation.ca
Arrangements entrusted to:
Interlake Cremation & Memorial Services.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 03, 2021