Donald Henry Smith

Donald Henry Smith

May 17, 1931 - August 3, 2025

Donald (Don) passed away peacefully in his sleep at Betel Home in Gimli, Manitoba at 94 years of age. He is survived by his brother Dallas (Marlene), his daughter Audrey (Jack), his son Brian (Brenda) and his grandchildren Amanda, Chris, Dillon (Mariell) and Tyler (Yaza). He is also survived by his loving, kind and compassionate partner Georgie Rutter. Georgie's family were also a very important part of Don's life, her daughter Ellen, her son Darren (Cyndi), her grandchildren Darren Jr., Jennifer (James) and her great grandchildren Rhett and Angus.

Don was born on the family farm 9 miles NE of Langenburg, SK. He was proud of his farm background and even though he left the family farm in 1952 he continued to return to the farm to help his brother with seeding and harvesting well into his 70's. Upon first arriving in Winnipeg Don worked several different jobs and in May 1953 joined the Canadian National Railway. After 30 plus years working in various departments Don retired from the CN in 1985.

Don had many skills learnt on the farm but the one he loved most was carpentry. Between 1960 and 1980, he built four houses with the help of family and friends as well as the family cottage north of Gimli. His last house building was in 1989 where he oversaw the construction of his daughter's house.

After selling his house in Transcona, Don split his time between Arizona, the cottage in Gimli and the family farm in Saskatchewan. From  1994 to 2011, Don spent winters in Arizona and fully believed that was why he had such good health. After Arizona him and Georgie spent a few winters in Mexico before braving Manitoba winters again. They spent many years enjoying activities at New Horizons and countless hours of card playing with friends. Georgie always knew how to get a smile out of him.

Many thanks to the staff at Betel Home in Gimli for their care and kindness to Don over the last 3 years.

Tributes: www.gilbartfuneralhome.com

Gilbart Funeral Home, Gimli in care of arrangements.

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