Obituary of Donald Smith

Smith,Donald,77 Halifax Smith, Donald William “Smitty” – Age 77 of Bedford, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Saturday, June 5, 2021. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, he was the son of the late John and Helen (Bennett) Smith and stepson of the late Granville Thomas. Smitty moved to Halifax, Nova Scotia after joining the Canadian Armed Forces in August 1963. Shortly thereafter, he met and married the love of his life Sandra (Johnson). Smitty served his country and Canadian citizens for over 37 years as a member of the Canadian Armed Forces, retiring as the Squadron Chief Warrant Officer of 434 Squadron in 1999. A man of many talents and interests, he was a volunteer hockey trainer for the Cole Harbour Labatt Colts and East Hants Molson Penguins of the Maritime Junior A hockey league, an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish with his family and friends, and an exceptional handyman capable of designing and building just about anything. Smitty was known for his love of life and family. A shining example of kindness, generosity, enthusiasm, and perseverance, he was an extraordinary husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend. He loved to celebrate others’ successes and accomplishments, particularly those of his children and grandchildren. He never wanted to miss a birthday, graduation, game, or Christmas morning gift opening. Smitty wanted to be there for it all. The world was a better place because of Smitty. Smitty will be dearly missed by his wife of 55 years Sandra; daughter, Natalie (Mark) Hulshof; son Jody (Kim) Smith; grandchildren, Zavier, Rachel, Emily, and Liam; sisters, Linda Gobbo and Sheila (Manus) McGowan, and nieces and nephews. Rest in peace Smitty. You have earned it. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. A Celebration of Life for Donald will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to T. J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, 71 McQuade Lake Crescent, Halifax, 902-835-4212. To leave words of comfort and condolences for the family please visit, www.tjtracey.com.