Derek SMITH

Derek E.R. Smith (1937-2017)
Left this world suddenly but peacefully in his 80th year on Sunday, February 26 while on vacation in one of his favourite places, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Left to mourn his passing are his loving wife, Clare O'Brien, children: Cynthia (Keith McKinnon), Jennifer Lafrenière (Jean-Marc), Michael (Chanel) and grandchildren; Andrea Lowe Davis (Jason), Stefanie Lowe, Nicolas Lafrenière, Luc Lafrenière and Cameron Jaquith and Clare's children: Owen Mooney (Susan) and Liz Desfosses (Jean), and grandchildren Elliot, Renee, Foster and Soleil. Derek is also survived by his sister, Eileen Hilton and extended family. He was predeceased by his parents Ernest and Elizabeth Smith. A first generation Canadian, Derek was born and raised in Montreal and graduated from Sir George Williams University. He worked in manufacturing for Canron and Ernst and Ernst Consulting. In 1973, Derek moved his family to Winnipeg where he worked for Inter-City Gas, was General Manager and Regional Director of the Royal Canadian Mint; President and CEO of the Manitoba Liquor Control Commission and Executive Director, Arts Stabilization Manitoba until his retirement. He gave much of his time to the volunteer sector with Civitan International and serving on the Boards of many organizations including the Banff School of Advanced Management, St Boniface Research Centre; St Amant Centre; Manitoba and Canada Safety Councils; Junior Achievement; Winnipeg Youth Orchestra; Manitoba Arts Council; and the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra
Derek loved Winnipeg yet griped about the long cold winters. His favourite place was his cottage in Ponemah where he spent many happy times during the warmer months. Derek will be missed by his family, his many colleagues and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to one of Derek's charities: Agape Table, Christian Children's Fund, Doctors Without Borders or a charity of your choice
A memorial service to celebrate Derek's life will be announced at a later date. Rest in peace, Good Ol' Dad.