George Oliva Lavertu

George will forever be remembered and loved by his daughters, Pam (Brett) and Lisa (Will); granddaughter, Mikayla; sister, Claire-Anne; brothers, Gilbert (Denise) and Laurence (Rose); as well as many nieces and nephews. His dear friend Myrtle will cherish his friendship forever.

He was predeceased by his parents Oliva and Albertine; sisters, Marina and Lillian; brothers, Raymond and Marcel; brothers-in-law, Roger, Jerry and Bill; and sisters-in-law, Judy and Marie.

George was born in Domremy, SK a small French-speaking community. After moving to Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, he had to learn English in school and gradually lost much of his childhood French.

George started in the restaurant business in Prince Albert and eventually opened a Smitty’s Family Restaurant there. In the mid 1970’s he moved to Edmonton to open a Smitty’s in Kingsway Garden Mall. It became one of the busiest locations in Canada. Eventually, he and his partners opened a total of 12 Smitty’s locations in Edmonton and Red Deer. George briefly “retired” then moved to Leduc to operate Smitty’s Restaurant there. With his friendly positive attitude, customers quickly came to know him by name.

George was community minded. He volunteered for the MS Bike Tour for many years, the local Rotary Club, Music Festival, Food Bank and with many other organizations. In 2013 he was awarded the Leduc Mayor’s Special Award in recognition of his contributions to the community.

Family was very important to George. He rarely missed a family wedding or anniversary. Known for his caring, kindness and sense of humour, he brightened the lives around him. He formed many lifelong friendships, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Hainstock & Son Funeral Chapel. At George’s request, there will not be a funeral or service.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in George’s name to the Alberta Cancer Foundation or Canadian Cancer Society are greatly appreciated.