GORDON CLARKSON SMITH (GORD)

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GORDON CLARKSON SMITH
December 15, 1924 - December 26, 2019

Our family sadly announces the passing of Gordon Clarkson Smith, of Winnipeg, following a brief illness and just a few days after celebrating his 95th birthday with us.
He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Laura Smith, their six children and their families: Ryan and Debbie Smith of Winnipeg; Marilyn Smith of Ottawa; Beverly and Dr. David Patry of Calgary; David and Lynn Smith of Castlegar; George Smith of Edmonton; and Richard and Brenda Smith of Winnipeg. Gordon is survived by 16 grandchildren: Stephen Howard; Natalie Lekic (Nick), Jaimeson Smith; Reid Smith; Jonathon Patry (Adrienne), Andrea Patry, Emily Patry and Joel Patry; Mark Smith (Tara), Carla Smith (Nadia) and Brian Smith (Jessica); Lauren Smith and Melanie Smith; Jason Mack (Steph), Lindsay Acevedo (Mario) and Chelsea Smith (Chris). Gordon also leaves eight great-grandchildren: Sasha, Lila, Sophia, Addison, Sora, Abbi, Bryson and Izaak. He is also survived by his sister Muriel Cook and brother David Smith, both of Winnipeg, and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Gordon was predeceased by his brother, Douglas, and his grandson, Michael Patry.
Dad was born in Hamiota, Manitoba and raised in Brandon, Manitoba, the third of four children of Clarkson and Ada (Spearman) Smith. He had a life-long interest in aircraft and flying, and at 18 joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in Winnipeg, where he served in various postings across Canada until his honourable discharge in 1946. In later years, he volunteered at the Western Aviation Museum in Winnipeg, and loved to visit air shows.
Dad and Mom met in 1943, married at Greenwood United Church in Winnipeg in 1948, and started their family during Dad's university days. Dad graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Manitoba in 1952 and worked in the agricultural industry in various positions in sales and management, and subsequently, as owner of a farm equipment dealership. Over the years, he developed an encyclopedic knowledge of the Manitoba and Saskatchewan farming communities and travelled extensively in the Western provinces to serve small business owners and farmers whom he was proud to know as customers and friends.
Gord's expertise in business operations allowed him to successfully pursue a second career as a counsellor with the Federal Business Development Bank and coordinator for the CASE program (Counselling Assistance for Small Enterprises). He was a member of the Manitoba Institute of Agrologists, served as Past Master of Sturgeon Creek Lodge #145 for several years and was a member and Elder of the United Church of Canada.
Dad liked nothing better than to get on the road and see the country. Early on, he and Mom would pack up the station wagon with their young family plus the dog, and camp in the provincial parks along the way to places such as Ottawa, Vancouver, the Whiteshell, Falcon Lake, Yellowstone National Park and the Badlands of South Dakota. When they became "empty-nesters", Dad thought nothing of taking "short road trips" with Mom to visit family in Alberta and British Columbia or relatives in Texas. They enjoyed business travel to San Diego and, later, a holiday in Mexico.
Gordon was a gregarious host who loved to entertain visitors and guests in a relaxed environment. He appreciated good music, good bridge, and good books (especially on the First World War and Second World War), and developed an impressive talent for inventive barbequing.
Dad enjoyed exploring his family history, and in his retirement created extensive genealogical records of the Smith and Spearman family trees. It was important to him that we "know where we come from". Dad was very proud of his family and sought to encourage us to be the best we could be. He was never one to give specific advice or direction, but rather counselled us to "explore our options". As a grandfather, he especially delighted in the accomplishments of his grandchildren and enjoyed their phone calls and emails. His conversations usually ended with "if you need anything, let me know"; his cards and letters would be signed "Gord".
Dad always said that Mom was his best friend, and that everything he did ultimately was for her. They were married for 71 years and were seldom apart for more than a few days.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at Prairie Spirit United Church, 207 Thompson Drive, St. James, on Saturday, January 4, 2020, at 11:00 a.m.
Our family extends our appreciation to the Winnipeg paramedics, and to the doctors and nursing staff at Victoria General Hospital for their care. We are also grateful for the concern and kindness shown by the staff and residents of Lindenwood Terrace.
If friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to a charity of your choice.

NEIL BARDAL
FUNERAL CENTRE
204-949-2200
neilbardalinc.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 04, 2020