Tribute

With heavy hearts, we sadly announce the passing of John Kingsley Smithson.
John passed away peacefully at the Cow Dist Hospital with his loving family by his side. He was predeceased by his mother Mavis Hasse in 1975 his father Ted Hasse in 1986, father in law Allan Rudolph in 1999, mother in law Ethel Rudolph in 2003. John was born on May 17, 1944 in Vancouver, BC. He was the only child, grew up in Prince Rupert & Cowichan Valley.
In later years, John moved to Calgary where he attended college and became a mechanical draftsmen. This is where he met the true love of his life, Diana. They were married in 1965, & soon after began to start their family. He had three beautiful daughters: Kari, Jodi & Tiara. Soon after the girls were born, John & Diana decided to return to Duncan where John always wanted to raise his family. He was offered a job at Crofton Pulp Mill in 1974 & continued his career until his early retirement in 1996.
John was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease when he was 38 years old. He never once complained or felt sorry for himself that he had to battle this horrible disease. He lived everyday to the fullest & was an inspiration to everyone he shared his life with.
“Dad” was the most kind, gentle, compassionate, caring, soft spoken person. He loved his family more than anything in this world. His greatest joy were his grandchildren. Michelle, JJ, Krystyna, Tayler, Kaitlyn & Kourtney, he was so proud of all of you and loved you so much.
His smile was infectious when he was around you. Rarley did Papa miss a sporting event, he was always the #1 fan and looked forward to watching you all excel in your sports. John loved playing basketball, baseball, curling & football in his early years, but still enjoyed watching sports on TV.
He enjoyed swimming at the pool 3 times a week, making him feel so free in the water. The staff always took such great care of him. He loved strolling in his scooter down the trail with Mom and his puppy Douque chatting to many along the way.
He enjoyed his time at the Seniors Centre playing pool & shuffle board with his buddies from the mill. Crib was one of his favourite card games, good luck ever beating him!
A special thank you to Cal & Diane Blehm for their friendship over the past 40 years. You were always there for John. We cannot express how much that has meant to our family. To Ken & Rick, you were the son’s John never had. You were always there for him & he loved you both more than you know.
Our family miracle came early – Blake Kingsley Frueh, his great granddaughter that he was so anxious to meet. We are blessed that Papa was able to meet Blake & loved her before his passing.
The family wishes to express their gratitude for the exceptional care by Dr. Tom Rimmer, Dr. Baker, Dr. Watt, Dr. Pardon, Dr. Tuck, all the nurses on 2 – South, 3 – South & staff, Physiotherapist (Kerrie & Maria).
Lovingly remember by his wife Diana of 55 years, daughters: Kari (Ken, Michelle, Andrew, Blake, Krystyna, Tyler), Jodi (Rick, Kaitlyn, Kourtney), Tiara (JJ, Louisa, Tayler). Brother and sister in law Bryan & Wendy Rudolph (Jason, Lisa, Troy & Ash). And many extended family & friends.
A private family gathering was held at the Lake honouring John.
May you run free, you are no longer suffering, you were a fighter to the end. Your strength & Wisdom will carry on in our hearts forever. We will miss your humour and infectious smile. Until we meet again!
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Parkinson’s Society of BC.