Tribute

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of William Harry Smith.  He was born on Dec 26th, 1937 in Bulyea, Saskatchewan and left us on March 6th, 2018 while relaxing in his favorite chair.

He is survived by his best friend and Wife of 25 years, Verna Van Druten Smith, his ex Wife Marlene, his cherished Children and Grandchildren:  Joey Smith ( Julie), Matthew and Brianne, Debbie Smith, Judy Williams ( Stephen), David, Tibey and Samantha along with his Step Children and Grand Children from Saskatchewan:  Beata Van Berkom and Zeger, Naomi Van Berkom ( Kent), Christina and Clayton.

Bill joined the navy at a young age and traveled to many places while serving.  It was while he was stationed in Esquimalt that he would settle there  and marry Marlene.  Starting a family was something he cherished so he left the navy for a more stationary job.  He started his lumber career at BCFP in Victoria.  Joey was soon born and a move to Chemainus, along with a new job as a PLIB inspector created the start of a new chapter in his life.   Soon after, his first little girl Debbie was born.  Years later, after his second little girl Judy was born, he branched out on his own opening Bill Smith Forest Products.

Marrying Verna in 1993, they settled in Chemainus and created a new branch to BSFP called Logsmith Homes.  Together they built beautiful log homes and had the time of their lives traveling on their foreign adventures.  They had many road trips over the years, learning new things, creating, socializing and singing.  It was never hard to find him, one just had to listen for his whistle or hear his tenor voice radiating a tune.

Throughout all the years of Bill’s profession he will be remembered as a man that always lent a hand, gave a fair deal and built his business on a handshake and a promise.  He was honest, generous and gave many people a chance.  He was intelligent, conscientious, kind, patient and never had a bad word to say.  Bill was tremendously hard working and a true gentleman.

To his family he was all of these things and more.  He had an infectious smile and  an innate ability to make you feel safe, and to put you at ease. He lit up a room with his presence, his laughter, and with his jokes and sense of humor.

Bill retired in 2015 and in his short retirement he spent many days building on to his home.  He looked forward to the times he could spend with his family filling every occasion with love, laughter, and food.  He was always there for some solid advice, a warm cup of tea and a strong hug usually followed by cookies or ice cream, two things he was profoundly passionate about.

He left his special mark on this world.  Bill has left a lasting memory for all of us.

Not only was he an amazing husband, father, grandfather and friend but a shining example of how to life our lives with love and kindness.

” It is hard to forget someone that has given so much for us to remember ”

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