Jack Smith. 1925 – 2011. Jack Smith’s life embraced a long list of commitments made and honoured. Born in the small town of Cardale, Manitoba, he grew up with his sister Elizabeth (who still lives in nearby Rivers, MB with her husband Shorty) and his brother Murray. From an early age, he helped his parents run the town’s General Store. World War II interrupted Jack’s education, and after high school, he became a proud member of the RCAF, and a member of the Royal Canadian Legion. When he resumed his education at the University of Manitoba, he became President of the Men’s Residence Students’ Association, aiming for, and achieving, a delicate balance of privileges and regulations between the returning veterans and the younger new students; all while he completed his Bachelor of Commerce degree.
During his studies at U of M, he met his wife, Patricia Watkins, and together they raised two children, George and Wendy. He supported his family through his career in Group Life and Health Insurance, first with Great-West Life, and then with Confederation Life. He was a member of the Masonic Order for 64 years, becoming a life member of Prince Rupert’s Lodge No. 1, GRM and served as Master of that Lodge in 1965. Career and family commitments were enhanced by his volunteerism. Diligence brought him to the position of President of the Fort Rouge Curling Association. Recognition of his efforts garnered him Honorary Life Memberships in both the Fort Rouge Curling Club and the Manitoba Curling Association. Retirement brought a change of geography, but not of commitment to community. Jack and Pat moved to White Rock, BC in the late 80’s. He sat as Provincial Representative on the Peace Arch Hospital Board of Directors (through three different party governments!). He also served as Chair of the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation for over a dozen years, helping to create the Million Dollar House Lottery, and proudly shepherding it through its inaugural year. He also chaired, for many years, the City of White Rock Design Panel, the White Rock/South Surrey Condo Association, the Strata Council of White Rock Square and the Board of Calico Underfoot Int’l. He was especially pleased to be Chair of the Totem Pole Site Selection Committee for White Rock. His greatest commitment was to Pat, his wife of 53 years. He was her loving companion and primary caregiver throughout her years of struggle with Parkinson’s Disease. Shortly after her death, Jack himself was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. The wonderful staff in the Peace Arch Hospice can attest to his determination to manage the disease to the best of his ability. His wry sense of humour, natural respect for others and gentlemanly behaviour made him a popular patient to the end. He will be deeply missed by his son, George (Doreen) and grandchildren Lauren (Ian) McCaughey and Grant Smith, and by his daughter, Wendy, along with his nieces and nephews. And by White Rock; his home and community. Jack, ever humble, requested cremation and a small, private ceremony. If wished, memorial donations may be made to the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation, 15521 Russell Ave., White Rock, BC, V4B 9Z9, or to a charity of your choice. Condolences may be offered at www.victoryfuneralcentre.ca
Victory Memorial Park Funeral Centre 604-536-6522