Beloved Husband, father, and Grandfather Don Smith passed away on April 21st, 2023, aged 79.
Born in South Porcupine Ontario (Timmins) July 12, 1943. Beloved son of the late Douglas Smith and the late Adah (Grasby). The second eldest of 7, grew up in a warm and loving home. The family later moved to Brussels Ontario.
Dedicating his time and energy to helping those in need he pursued his interests majoring in political science. It was no surprise during his studies At Lakehead University he found himself in love with an extraordinary woman, Mary (Cheesebrough). Complimenting his energy and direction in life Don and Mary married in 1969 raising two boys, Karl and Kenneth.
Supporting Mary on her way to obtaining her master’s degree in social services. They moved their family to Toronto. During Her studies, Don taught at Bendale Secondary School in 1970 -72. Obtaining her masters Don and Mary returned to Thunder Bay where Mary worked for the Ministry of Community and Social Services and pioneered the Life Skills Program for Confederation College while Don found his way as journalist for the Chronicle Journal until 1976.
In 1977 – 1982 Don became an alderman on the Thunder Bay city council, and he continued to campaign, developing his passion which led to the beginning his political career.
1984-1993 Don worked as constituency assistant for MP Iain Angus, when Angus represented the Thunder Bay – Atikokan riding for the NDP. Working hard for his community of Thunder Bay, Don’s role in non-profit housing development has ensured continued support for hundreds of people and their families giving them the ability to obtain decent and affordable housing.
Solidifying his mark in the community Don became President of Both Castegreen Co-operative housing during its formative stages, municipal non-profit Housing Corporation, and representing the board for the Ogden- East End Community Heath Center.
The amount of love he had for his community easily transferred to his home life. In 1989, while Mary was attending the university of Toronto and pursuing her Doctorial studies at O.I.S.E, she was diagnosed with cancer. Don’s response of devotion and caring never waivered, standing by her side providing immense care and support through every moment until her passing in 1990. The dedication shown to his loved ones and to the betterment of his community reveals so much about Don Smiths’ character, subsequently instilling these traits on to his children. The amount of love he had to give was endless.
The example of a father caring for their mother so faithfully while battling cancer, making sure she is taken care of while navigating troubling times, echoes through the sons he raised. Men who always puts others above himself, who are the foundation to which family has been built upon, a definite role model.
Moving Forward after a great loss Don Smith served briefly as project manager for Environment north in 1994 and for the next two years was a volunteer with the leadership development program. Conducted training seminars for Volunteer boards. 1997 - 1999, he returned to LSPC where he was a community developer.
In 1999, Don moved to Ottawa and secured a job as house co-ordinator for Russell Heights Community House. He set up programs and acted in a superintendent role from 1999 – 2013.
The draw towards Ottawa were more than just settling down in our country’s capital. Rekindling an old friendship with Aline Akeson which blossomed into a true heartfelt romance. Don certainly was enamoured by exemplary women. Aline a lifelong resident of Ottawa, had a long and distinguished career as a poverty activist working with the Ottawa Tenants Council, the Pinecrest-Queensway & Somerset West Community Health Centres and the Action Centre for Social Justice and was awarded the order of Ontario.
Together Don and Aline shared their love and enjoyed all Ottawa had to offer, often Don said more than it ought to have. attending live theater and the fine dining restaurants throughout the city until her passing in July 2013 of Alzheimer’s disease.
Filling his time in Ottawa Don worked tirelessly as president for De Jardins Co-operative earning the respect and friendship of many of its residents. Don continued to volunteer and work for the NDP as he has for most his adult life.
It is difficult to find the appropriate combination of words to communicate each triumph for a man as exceptional and accomplished as Don Smith. Extending the wisdom of his accomplishments collected throughout his life. Don never looked the part of a hopeless environmentalist and social activist but he in fact spent his life flighting to make the world a better place. His sons recalling his NDP campaign signs reading “Your Environmentally Friendly Candidate” long before the environmental movements present today. Citizen extra-ordinaire, prominent political figure, He deeply cared about this world and the people in it. Don will be so greatly missed by the many of the lives he’s touched.
Survived by his loving family left to carry his memory are his brothers Rae and Douglas & Sister-in-law Colleen. His Sons Karl & wife Sylvia and Kenneth & wife Evelyn grandchildren Tanya, Adam, and Erika. Along with nieces and nephews John, Jimmy, Leif, Kassandra, Jessica, Matthew, Andrew, Shirin, and Anisa.
Predeceased by sister Joan and brothers Larry, Robert, and Jim.
In lieu of flowers and sympathies please send donations to the Canadian Cancer society or the Alzheimer’s Society.
Don Smith’s dear friend Aurore Trahan invites you to join in the celebration of life which will be held on Saturday, May 6th, 2023, at 10:00 am on the 10th Floor Des Jardins Co-op. 100 Empress Ave, Ottawa.
