Wayne Richard Smith

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Wayne Richard Smith, age 70, on November 3rd, 2023. He passed peacefully with his family by his side in the Palliative Care Unit of the Dartmouth General Hospital. Though he eventually made Dartmouth his home, Wayne was born in Chatham, Ontario on July 20th, 1953, to Howard and Alice (Gammel) Smith. He was predeceased by both of his parents. Wayne is survived by his beloved wife of 42 years, Ethel Smith; sons David (Brianna), William (Lindsay), and James; grandchildren Zachary, Joshua, Aubrey, and Amelia; siblings Julie (Rob), Lloyd (Brenda), and Christopher; as well as many dearly loved family and friends. Wayne was raised in the small community of Highgate, Ontario, leaving in May of 1972 when he enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces. He was a Naval Weapons Technician, and proudly dedicated 23 years of his life to that role, taking him to ports all over the world. Wayne sailed on various ships during his career, including HMCS Saguenay, HMCS Athabaskan, HMCS Nipigon, HMCS Iroquois, HMCS Margaree, HMCS Fraser, HMCS Preserver, HMCS Protector, and HMCS Huron. Upon his retirement from the Canadian Armed Forces in 1995, Wayne went on to join the Corps of Commissionaires in May of 1996, where he served for 27 years. Wayne’s family was the light of his life and his proudest achievement. He was always so proud of his three sons and their own achievements, and his four grandchildren brought so much joy to his life. When his boys were young, Wayne became a leader for Scouts Canada so that he could spend time with his own children and help to guide others, leaving a lasting impact on many. Wayne loved history, astronomy, camping, and sudoku puzzles. He was extremely hardworking, kind, genuine, and warm. Wayne’s gentle spirit and loving nature will forever be remembered by those who knew and loved him. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the doctors, nurses, and other staff at the Palliative Care Unit at the Dartmouth General Hospital. Wayne was treated with the utmost kindness, respect, and compassion during his illness, and for that we are so grateful. Cremation has taken place at the Harbourside Crematorium. Online condolences may be made at www.harboursidecremation.ca The funeral service will be held on Friday, November 10th at Cole Harbour Woodside United Church (15 Bissett Road, Cole Harbour), with a visitation from 1:00pm, and celebration of life service at 1:30pm. Interment will follow immediately after at Dartmouth Memorial Gardens (767 Main Street, Dartmouth). The family will then host a reception back at the Cole Harbour Woodside United Church Hall, all are welcome. Family flowers only, please. In lieu of flowers, donations in Wayne's memory may be made to the Dartmouth General Hospital Foundation Palliative Program: info.dghfoundation@dghfoundation.ca Ready Aye Ready Sailor Rest Your Oars

Wayne Richard Smith

July 20, 1953 - November 3, 2023