SMITH, Bruce Ian
It is with deep and heavy sadness that we announce the passing of Bruce Ian Smith on June 4, 2017 within the embrace of his wife and daughter.
Bruce was born at Trochu, Alberta to George and Bertha Smith on June 23, 1939 and throughout his life called Wimborne, Brooks, Bassano, Carstairs, Stettler, Lloyd-minster, Calgary and Camrose home. It was at both Stettler - during his high school and adult years - and at Camrose where he made lasting friend-ships and community contributions. Bruce was indeed happiest spending time with Glenys, his wife of 52 years; his children, Shawn and Carolyn and his daughter-in-law Karen; his grandchildren, Dominique, Rebecca, Liam and Adam and his great-grandson Jace. Bruce grew to love model railroading and spent the majority of his time over the last 18 years at the Camrose Railway Station maintaining and running the Garden Railway, giving rides on the track motor car, building and maintaining everything and anything around the depot and of course, mowing all that grass! Bruce loved to chat with visitors and told many stories to those who took the time to listen. Bruce remained very active even over the last several years as he struggled with his memory and suffered from dementia. He also remained an active member and volunteer at St Andrew's Anglican Church right up to the time he entered the hospital in mid-May. Bruce left us before we were ready - but we take comfort in knowing that what he wanted was to say good-bye while he still knew us, and to end his pain. Besides his immediate family, Bruce is survived by his loving sister, Faye (Howard) Shields and many nieces and nephews, friends and community members. He was predeceased by his parents and brother and good friend Robert (Bob).
The family wish to send our heartfelt thanks to all the friends of the station who supported Bruce and our family during this time of transition. We would also like to thank the wonderful nurses and staff on Unit 4 of St Mary's hospital, Dr. Nicol, and Dr. Fletcher. A special thank you to Jeremiah Overland who was so instrumental in helping Bruce remain active and busy, Jacque and Bobbie Valliancourt for their prayers and devotion to Bruce and all of our family and friends who have
supported us and walked with us through this time.
A memorial service and celebration of Bruce's life has taken place at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, June 10, 2017 at St. Andrew's Anglican Church (4713 - 50 St. Camrose) with Father Jacques deGuise Vaillancourt, CD.
Cremation has taken place. Memorial donations may be made to Canadian National Society, or to St. Andrew's Anglican Church.
WEBER FUNERAL HOME
780-672-3131, www.weberfuneralhome.ca