Obituary of Heather Smith

SMITH: Heather Lois (née Birss), beloved wife of Harold, passed away peacefully at the Assiniboine Centre on September 14, 2010, with family by her side. Heather was born in Dauphin on December 30, 1923 on the family farm. After Dauphin Collegiate graduation, she was employed as a switchboard operator with MTS. Following her marriage, and the subsequent birth of son Lorne Neil, the family moved to BC. Daughter Judy Lynne was born soon after in Kamloops. When Harold joined the Air Force, the family was posted to Germany in 1955. Other postings included Ottawa, Ontario and Rivers, MB. On return to Canada they eventually settled in Ottawa where she worked for several years at Olgilvies Department Store, Currie Drugs in High River, Alberta and finally with Tops 'n Trends, retiring at age 70. They spent over 35 years in High River, Alberta where Heather worked for several years at Currie Drugs. She was an avid bowler, swimmer and Tai Chi enthusiast. She and Harold also enjoyed 10 years of square dancing with various clubs across Canada. Other interests included reading, word puzzles, knitting and watching the Blue Jays play. She canvassed for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, participated in the Terry Fox Runs for many years and most recently helped out with the Cerebral Palsy Stationary Bike Race. Survived by husband Harold (celebrating 65 years of marriage in June); son Lorne (Corinne), daughter Judy McIntosh (Andy). Grandchildren Adrian, Felicity, Jennifer (Darcy), Jared (Tammy), Kyle (Sara). She had three great grandsons Zachary, Tyler and Owen whom she loved dearly and enjoyed the time spent with them. Heather will be fondly remembered by her sister Kay (Bill) of BC and her brother Elwood of Dauphin . She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brothers Ted and Sheldon of Dauphin, MB. Her family would like to say thanks for the care she received while in the BRHC. The nurses and aides there were amazing. She was moved for a very brief stay to the Assiniboine Centre where she was also treated with kindness and dignity, as was her family. A service was held for Heather at Brockie Donovan Chapel, Monday, September 20th, 2010. Rev Joe Ball officiated. Grandson Kyle was the Urn Bearer with all in attendance being Honorary Pallbearers. Her son Lorne gave a very memorable tribute. Thanks for the memories, Mom. You will be missed.