Obituary of Derwyn "Smitty" Bruce Smith

SMITH: Derwyn Bruce (Smitty), son of the late John and Edrie Smith passed away peacefully Sunday, March 5th, 2017 with his children by his side. Derwyn was born and raised in Brandon. The youngest of three boys, he fondly recounted his early childhood with his brothers, and with them began to develop his passion for building models which carried on throughout his lifetime. He married Joyce (Morcombe) in 1969 and had three children, Michelle, Todd and Robert. He attended Harrison High School and began his career at BMHC at the age of 16. He was educated as a Psychiatric Nursing Assistant and continued on to Rideau Park PCH until his retirement in 2007, after 42 years. After retiring, Derwyn returned to work casual at Rideau Park until his health would no longer allow it. Derwyn had some really big passions. The #1 being the Blue Jays baseball team. He was able to fulfill a lifelong dream of seeing them live in Toronto in 2008 with his son, Todd. He very much looked forward to family gatherings at Michelle's, where he was able to tease all the grandchildren about "taking their allowance money," Billiards, golf, 50's rock n roll as well as collecting memorabilia, rounded out his interests. Derwyn's retirement years were filled with many hobbies, coffee dates, and lunches with Garth Feasby, friends and family. Four years ago, he found many things he was looking for in Janice Harkness. After being childhood friends and co-workers for many years, they formed a loving relationship that would last until his passing. They enjoyed travelling to the coast, going on gambling excursions and a fine glass of wine together. His life will forever be cherished in the lives of his children, Michelle Hay (Guy), grandchildren Chris, Caitlin (Dan) and Courtney (Trevor), great grandchild Noah, step-grandchildren Cody and Kaden; Todd Smith (Danielle), grandchild Jade, step-grandchildren Brandon and Tyler; Rob Smith of Edmonton; brothers Morley (Joyce), nephews Dick, Shane and their families, his sister-in-law Vera, niece Tammy, nephew Terry and their families, and ex-wife Joyce (Morcombe). Derwyn was predeceased by his parents John and Edrie, and his brother Doug. A Come & Go Memorial Reception was held on Friday, March 10, 2017 at the Central United Church Auditorium. Donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, Unit 3-2430 Victoria Avenue, Brandon, MB, R7B 0M5.