AUGUST 5, 1934 – MARCH 18, 2021
With broken hearts we announce the passing of Wilf, our beloved husband and father.
Dad died peacefully surrounded by family after bravely battling complications associated with Parkinson’s disease.
Wilf leaves behind Shirley, his wife of 64 years and his two sons – his best pals, Bernard Keir and Jonathan Kyle. Dad often spoke of his “Angel”, his dear wife Shirl who lovingly cared for him throughout his final years allowing him to be home right to the final week. Our family is in awe of Mom.
Wilf was born in Stretford, Manchester and attended St. Bede’s College and Salford University where he attained his Chemistry degree. Dad was a proud 60 year member of the Royal Institute of Chemistry and also joined the Canadian Society for Chemistry in 1969.
As a younger person, Wilf enjoyed playing rugby, soccer, cricket and cycled around the Northern “shires” of England. It was as a 10 year old when his life-long love affair with Manchester City Football Club began.
After emigrating to Canada in 1963, Wilf went on to enjoy a happy and successful career in the chemical industry, travelling far and wide for business and pleasure.
The Smith’s settled in Tsawwassen where Wilf played, coached and sat as Registrar for the soccer club. Dad coached many of the same young players for 12 years and took great pride in the accomplishments of a special group of young athletes.
Golf became another passion for Dad and his membership at Hazelmere Golf Club dates back a very long time and provided great enjoyment and many dear friendships.
During the last three years of his career, he moved to Kamloops , commuting home each weekend to enjoy a round of golf and help Shirley tend to their beautiful gardens. Wilf would pack up his favourite “buns and biscuits” and homemade spaghetti and off he went to the Okanagan again each week.
Wilf is also survived by his Sister-in-law Pam Harris (Bryan) and their family: Bev (Shaun) Mason and family: Jacki (Mike) Ashworth and family: Tracey (nee Hall) Peter and family: Griff Hall and fiancé Sandy.
Predeceased by Brother-in-law Ernest Hall and wife Jean and by his Dear Mother-in-law Elsie Hall.
In England Wilf is survived by Sister-in-law Dorothy and predeceased by his sister Marie and her husband Len Leary and Wilf’s brothers Joe, Ken and Frank along with Sisters-in-law Nuala and Thea. Dad is also survived by many nieces and nephews in England and was grateful to have had the chance to travel back to England on occasion to be with his siblings and all their kids and grandchildren.
Sincere thanks to the medical professionals including the wonderful, caring nurses and staff at Peace Arch hospital and Hospice who assisted our family during Dad’s many visits during his journey.
Family, friends and neighbours have also been so very supportive and will never be forgotten for their tremendous assistance along the way.
In lieu of flowers, Dad asks that donations be made to OWL of Ladner, the BC SPCA or a charity of your choice. No service nor gathering will be held at this time.
Our Dear Dad will be loved, fondly remembered and missed forever.
“Get stuck in” , “Do your Best”.
Rest easy Coach
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