THUNDER BAY - The former “voice of news in Northwestern Ontario” has passed away.
The Dougall Media family is mourning the loss of longtime radio and television personality Rick Smith, who died overnight Sunday at the age of 77.
Smith, who was born and raised in Nova Scotia and began his 46-year broadcasting career in Halifax, was first heard on the city’s airwaves in 1969 when he joined CKPR Radio.
He was the critically-acclaimed host of the renowned Rick Smith Show. As host, he fielded more than 20,000 telephone conversations.
At one point it was thought the show had the largest audience per capita in Canada.
From 1969 until signing off in 2006, Smith met or interviewed every Canadian prime minister except for two. He also talked with a number of sports stars, Hollywood celebrities and international royalty and political figures.
He was well-known by generations of local listeners and viewers, with his daily editorial column entitled One Man’s Opinion, generating significant community conversation during his tenure.
Smith signed off the air for the final time in September 2006 as he entered retirement.
An avid outdoorsman, he continued to live in Thunder Bay after retiring.
Smith was a father of four and in a 2006 interview he said his children were his “best friends.”
His son, Mark Smith, said he will remember his father most for his dedication and devotion to family.
