HOWARD WILLIAM SMITH (HOWIE)

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HOWARD WILLIAM SMITH

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Howard "Howie" Smith on January 7, 2023 at the age of 93 years.
He was predeceased in 1999 by his first wife, Bernice, his sons Jack and daughter-in-law Cheryl; and his infant son Gregory. Also predeceased by his parents Howard and Jean Smith; siblings Wilfred, Gladys, Violet, Morris.
He is survived by his loving wife Gwen, sister Sadie, and brother Wally (Joan); son Ricky, daughter Linda Taylor (Robert); grandchildren-Sarah (Leo), Erica (Tyler), Lee-Anne (Mike), Mike (Danielle); Michelle (Scott); Stuart (Jen), Jason (Shannon). He was also blessed with 14 great -grandchildren. Also survived by his step children and grandchildren, Craig (Angela) Carter & Zander; Tannis (Bill) Drew & Tyler; Tracey (Brett) Phoenix and Marigold as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Howie was born in Fisher Branch, MB and raised on a farm near Hodgson, where he learned the meaning of hard work. At age 13 the family moved to Winnipeg where Howie got involved with various sports and attended St. John's High School. In 1953 he joined the Winnipeg Fire Department where he worked until retirement as a captain in 1985. After retiring he enjoyed working for many years as an ice maker at Deer Lodge curling club where he became a life member. He also worked part time for many years at Northernaire Golf Course which enabled him to indulge in his passion for golf. In 1991 he built a park model trailer in which he enjoyed many wonderful years at Spruce Sands trailer park north of Gimli.
Howie made many friends not only in MB but all across Canada while taking part in the Canadian Firefighters Curling Championships of which he was proud to be the current longest standing life member of this organization.
He was the type of guy that everyone would want for a neighbour or friend, always willing to share his talents which included carpentry, electrical, welding, plumbing etc.
Howie's big heart, kindness, sense of humour, selflessness, and big smile will be missed by all.
Many thanks to Vista Park Lodge for their kind care.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Fire Fighters Burn Fund.
A graveside service will be held at Glen Lawn Cemetery on Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at 11:30 a.m. followed by a Celebration of Life with family and friends at Vic Wyatt House, 919 St. Anne's Rd. (parking available)

An anchor for a rocking ship
A helping hand when about to slip
Strength and love and fatherly ways
You will be missed for all our days.

Donations may be made in memory of Howie to the Burn Fund. www.burn fundmb.ca.
Family and friends may sign a book of condolence at www.glenlawn.ca.

Glen Lawn Funeral Home
204-982-7550

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 14, 2023