JOSEPH RICHARD SMITH

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JOSEPH RICHARD SMITH The family sadly announces the peaceful passing of Joe, aged 97 on April 30, 2005. Left to cherish his memory are his daughter Joan Balbon (Dennis Checkley); grandson Jay Balbon; sisters, Mary Mason and Bernice Moss; brother-in-law Jack Munro (Bernice); sisters-in-law, Marge Hamilton and Eileen Munro; and many nieces, nephews and extended family members. Joe was predeceased by his wife Ethel (who passed away only four months ago); his parents; and siblings, Frances, Jim and Bill. After being raised in Melita and working on the family farm, Joe ultimately married Ethel and settled in Warren, MB to raise his family. Joe was married to Ethel for 66 magnificent years. He and Ethel had many relatives and friends throughout the country that contributed to their lives being extremely rich and rewarding. Over the years they had travelled to various locales and had great times with friends and relatives across Canada. His grandson Jay and his daughter Joan held very special places in Joe's heart and they meant the world to him and they will miss him immensely. His passion and skill for farm implement mechanics led to him being much sought after by those who knew of him and his abilities. Even after retiring he could always be found puttering in his shop fixing some piece of equipment or other. He and Ethel also spent many very productive hours working in their vegetable and flower gardens. Joe was famed for his memories of people, places and events and he would always hold people in his the palm of his hand while revealing many of the stories of things gone past that many had long ago forgotten. Joe (and Ethel) had been very pleased to have made a new home at Golden Links Lodge in 2004 and the family would like to extend their appreciation to all the staff at Golden Links for their compassion, care and kindness. In observance with Joe's wishes, a private family service was held on, May 4, 2005. The Coutu family in care of arrangements: E.J. Coutu Co. Funeral Directors 680 Archibald St. 253-5086

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 07, 2005