FREDERICK "IAN" SMITH

(October 29, 1932 – September 9, 2025) Frederick "Ian" Smith passed away peacefully on Tuesday afternoon at the age of 92, following complications from a minor stroke. At that age, nothing is ever truly minor. A Scot through and through, Ian carried with him a mix of wit, resilience, and quiet pride. He was a man of intelligence, generosity, and integrity - someone who valued relationships deeply. Known for greeting everyone with a small laugh, he made people feel welcome and left friends everywhere he went. Born in 1932, Ian's childhood was shaped by both hardship and responsibility. After losing his mother at just five years old, he became a source of strength for his younger brother, Karsten, and newborn sister, Margaret. That resilience carried through his life. Ian graduated at the top of his Class of 1957 in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Toronto, setting the foundation for an extraordinary career. In 1965, Ian co-founded Smith + Andersen with John Andersen - an ambitious step that grew into one of Canada's leading engineering firms. From two partners to more than 750 employees across 11 offices, the company reflects Ian's vision, determination, and belief in the power of collaboration. His drive inspired those around him, and his values continue to guide the firm today. Ian lived life fully, splitting his time between Longboat Key, Etobicoke, and Thornbur - each place offering him community, sport, and joy. An inquisitive mind, he loved conversation, travel, and new experiences. He and his dear friend, Fred Sayers, even traveled to Moscow in 1972 to attend the legendary Canada–Russia Summit Series. Sport was a lifelong passion. He played tennis in both Thornbury and Longboat Key, and was nothing short of a golf fanatic. He belonged to three golf clubs, scored a hole-in-one at each, and played his final round in February 2024 at the age of 91 - still impressing others with his smooth swing. Skiing, sailing, and adventures with family rounded out his love of activity. A keen follower of the stock market, he took delight in investing - approaching it with the same curiosity, discipline, and enthusiasm that he brought to every part of life. Family remained at the center of Ian's life. With his beloved wife, Mary, he built a close and loving family: four children, David, Douglas, Christopher, and Jennifer (predeceased); four grandchildren, Samantha, Andrea, Jacqueline, and Katherine; and three great-grandchildren, Avery, Autumn, and Kaiden. His door was always open, and gatherings were filled with warmth, welcome, and laughter.