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Collin Smith Obituary
Collin adopted the persona "Joe Sports" during his early career as a sportscaster in Calgary radio, using the name exclusively all through his broadcast career. He worked at CJAY 92 and A-Channel Calgary before joining Global Calgary in 2000; he anchored Global Sports at 11:30 for five years.
He was renowned for an energetic, opinionated approach to sports journalism and for his great sense of humour. He touched many lives with a keen interest of amateur sports, giving many high school teams and athletes similar exposure in his daily sportscast to that afforded professional athletes.
“We learned a lot from Collin over the last year and a half about optimism, determination, dignity and the value of maintaining a sense of humour.,” said Dave Budge, Global Calgary’s news director. “This will be a difficult time for many of us, and I hope we can remember those lessons in his honour.”
Collin was diagnosed with leukemia in September 2005. He underwent a bone marrow transplant on June 1, 2006, which was successful but he struggled with a number of related complications afterwards.
Collin leaves behind his beloved wife, Margaret, and his four children.
687 Entries
Derek Barnbrook
April 17, 2013
Uncle Collin was a great man and a friend to the people around him but if he was back on earth today he will be a light to the people all around him I miss him I hope to see him in the next life I hope I love my uncle and the family that is here on earth thank you for the life you had on earth
Jefferson Smith
February 25, 2013
Was thinking about you today, can't wait to play some lake hockey with you in the next life. You were an amazing uncle.
R.I.P.
george peat
January 15, 2013
For Joe, Family, friends& co-workers: Always found "Joe Sports" refreshing personality amongst all media hype& types, just a sports fan I am, I thought he did it the right way!! Thank you, Joe. A Fan.
Dave
July 22, 2012
Always thinking about you, Joe
How you can show support
charlene harron
September 18, 2011
I remember Joe well & often think of him. Was saddened to hear of his passing, my heart goes out to his children, wife & family.
June 10, 2010
I am in shock.........I moved away from calgary in late 2006 and had no idea about colin's illness, and just heard today while listening to cjay92 today, June 10,2010. I am born and raised in calgary, he was part of our culture, and no matter if people agreed with him or not......he was apart of us, and I am truly saddened by the the news........I am just upset that i did not hear it sooner......... my condolences to the family.......... I and all calgarians will miss his opinions and his personality........God bless........... Jakarta Indonesia
Glen McInnis
June 4, 2008
Class act 100 percent. Had the pleasure of working with Colin at A-Channel. Sad loss of a great guy. God bless him.
derek barnbrook
February 11, 2008
Collin Smith was Joe sports and a family man. He was the best person to me. I wish his family much love. I have known him all my life. I will remember him always.
Johnny B
July 1, 2007
We will miss you "Joe Sports"..Thank You For making me smile!
Avril Gardner
June 5, 2007
I just learned of Collin's death today. I had the pleasure of meeting Collin in 2005. We were trying to work together through his brand " Joe Sports" this is quite a shock to me.
My prayers are with his family.
Michael Delorme
April 19, 2007
Joe (Collin), its April 19th and I just heard about your leaving us today. It sent chills down my spine....I have lived in Calgary 17 years now and I will never forget your voice when I got here....I will miss ya!
CB
April 12, 2007
I was away in Australia when this happened - and I just learned of it today.
He made the CJAY morning show bearable, and the FAN and Global entirely worthwhile.
A true sports personality for the generation that never had an Ed Whalen. Thanks.
Heather & Colin
April 2, 2007
Our deepest condolences. You made sports and their scores fun! Plus you weren't afriad to say what you were thinking when it came to the players, teams and coaches! We miss Joe Sports!
JOSEPH DOLAN
April 2, 2007
THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DID FOR THIS CITY...YOU WILL BE MISSED...
S B
April 1, 2007
i hope you are in a happier place, you were the reason for me watching sports every night on global. i would stay up until 11:42 every night even if i had school the next day to watch you when the sports was broadcasted. i always enjoyed your smile and the way you talked to the viewers instead of reading off the sports page notes. also when jimmy hughes sent the camera over to you, "here's joooooee sportss"!, i loved every minute of it. thanks for the many good times. see you around.
Monica Fowler
March 31, 2007
You made watching sports fun. Thanks
K Trimmer
March 31, 2007
Joe, you were the reason I started watching global, it isn't the same without you
Ken Yan
March 27, 2007
Loved his energy and passion for sports, will miss him dearly. RIP Joe
Rob Hadlow
March 26, 2007
Joe Sports;
We'll Miss your Lively Sports Reports both on Radio and TV. Your Unique way of doing sports made us all smile and laugh. You Will Be Surely Missed By All and Anyone who remembers your reports. We Will Miss You!!
sean mcstravick
March 26, 2007
The mcstravick family from belfast(ireland) would like to express their deepest sympathy to margaret and family on the sad news sean and brendan remember fondly the friendship and hospitlity shown to them on their visit to calgary in 1995 slan go foile mo chara
Lynn, Ann, and Thyr Hauer
March 24, 2007
We are saddened that Joe is not with us now. God bless his family and friends.
Lynda Gauthier
March 24, 2007
I'd like to offer my family's deepest sympathy to Joe's wife Margaret and their four children. We watched Joe on Global Sports and enjoyed his sense of humour, unique perspective and especially his great smile. He is sorely missed.
Randy Belford
March 23, 2007
I am very sorry that he is gone. He meant alot to the sports world. Even though I do not know him personally, but he brought character to the sports industry where everybody knew him as Joe Sports. He will definitely be missed by myself and of course family and friends. Rest in peace my friend. You will always have a place in my heart.
Trisha Smith
March 21, 2007
Ya know, I moved away from calgary a year ago now, so i am a little behind when it comes to your local news. I am shocked still at the passing of "Joe", I grew up listening to him, and even had the pleasure of meeting him once or twice thanks to CJay92. He will be missed, and many of us that did not know him well, will definately miss waking up to his voice every morning...
Blessed Be...
Tracy and Jon Spike
March 21, 2007
My deepest sympathy to his family.
I grew up listening to him on CJAY. He would always bring a smile to my face when he said his name.
Our hearts are with your family.
R. Martin
March 20, 2007
I did not know Colin personally, but I did "on air." His humour and personality shone through on screen, and it was always a delight to watch the segment of "Joe Sports." His light hearted antics and consumate, infectious grin will be missed.
Georeg Hofer
March 19, 2007
MY sympathy and deepest codolences to the family, loved seeing him on spots.
Frank Kallen
March 16, 2007
I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the Smith family!!!!
Colin was and still is a very honorable man.I might not have agreed to his opinion all the time,but Joe spoke his mind and I always appreciated that.I valued his opinion and tried to see things from his point of view,after all....he still is the expert on sports...and now his friends,his wife and children have a wonderful gardian angel.
Thanks Joe,we all miss you !!!
Bob & Faye White
March 14, 2007
We are so sorry for your loss. We very much enjoyed and appreciated Joe Sports' enthusiasm for sports and life. He will be missed by many.
Sharron Anderson
March 14, 2007
The sports just won't be the same without Joe Sports. My prayers are with his loved ones. God needed another good angel!!
Sharron...Medicine Hat
shelly kumar
March 12, 2007
we miss you as a wonderful host for global sports .we hope you rest in peace and lots of happiness to your family.god bless them.
Bre Church
March 12, 2007
You'll be deeply missed, you're sense of humor was phenominal. Thanks for making life so fun to live.
james and janet ducarme
March 12, 2007
me and my wifes prayers r with collin smiths (joe sports) family we both love watching him on sports at a 1130 he made watching it fun and his attuide was great he was never afaird to say what was on his mind and that was refreahing his to joe sports your memory will allways live on god bless man u will be miss more then u will ever know thanks for fun times. james and janet ducarme . calgary alberta .
Bob and Andrea Birk
March 9, 2007
Our deepest sympathy and prayers of hope and strength are extended to Collin's family and all the hearts he touched. It was obvious he was a fun-loving person and gave his all in everything he did. God bless you all and JOE Sports!!
John Karperien
March 9, 2007
I watched "Joe Sports!" on T.V. and listened to him on radio. I was born in Calgary and graduated from Bishop Grandin in 1976. Joe had a view and a take on the Calgary sports scene that was second to none.He told it like it was. Especially his views on opposing sports cities (ie.Edmonton). Thanks Joe, your refreshing points of view will be sorely missed by me and countless others.
My prayers go to the friends and family that you have left behind.It'll be fun to see what your kids will venture into in the future.
The airwaves aren't the same without you.
ciau.
Dianne VanderLeek
March 8, 2007
My prayers are with you guys!
God Bless!
Maria/Rick Wong/Hayes
March 7, 2007
Our thoughts to Collin's family and friends. Collin made sports much more fun.
Penny Dolha
March 7, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Matthew Benzen
March 6, 2007
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
kathy hryniw
March 4, 2007
my thoughts and prayers are with you and your whole family, time will heal the pain. you will always have him in your heart and all your beautiful memories will live on through you and your children. I lost both of my parents to cancer and they are always in my thoughts everyday and I thank God for the memories.
Sonya Larson
March 4, 2007
We enjoyed Collin so much and are sad to hear of his passing. Our prayers are with you, during this most difficult time. We pray for family and good friends to rally around you and give you support and understanding.
S N
March 2, 2007
We Are so sorry to hear about your loss. It is unfortunate but we all know u are in a good place may u rest in peace and may god be with you and your family in this time of sorrow. you will be missed by all and remembered always. me and my family always listened to you oon CJ92 and always looked forward to listen in on the sports on A-channel. RIP COLLIN!
Melissa Power
March 2, 2007
While the tears will fade, the memories of Collin will remain and give you comfort in your time of need and sorrow. My heart felt sympathies are with everyone who knew and loved "Joe Sports". God Bless.
Pam, Len, Samantha, Michael Nederlof
March 2, 2007
We are dreadfully sorry to hear of the passing of Collin Smith. Our sincerest sympathies.
Ron Guenette
March 1, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Susan Levesque
March 1, 2007
Hello
We are sorry about your loss.
We enjoy watching Joe Sport.
Remember he will live in the heart
of his family
Jack& Susan
Brenda Thibault
March 1, 2007
My deepest sympathy goes out to the Smith Family. I was able to have known Collin years ago when we both worked for CJAY 92. He always worked hard and had a passion for his family. A great person with lots of laughs and a greater personality. You will be missed. God Bless.
Christina Rowsell
March 1, 2007
"Joe" will be missed by the many lives he touched. Working in the media, I had the opportunity to see the professional side of Collin, as well as the sensitive side... one that he just couldn't hide...
Thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. You'll be missed, but not forgotten.
Christina Rowsell & Family
Morgan Cole
February 28, 2007
Hi Mary and Tony. I'm sorry that Collin passed away. You must be really sad. I'm sorry for your daughter and her kids too. I really miss you. Love Morgan
Nathan Smith (Collin's Youngest Brother)
February 28, 2007
I would like to thank everyone for their heart felt entries in this guest book. It is reading your thoughts that have made this time a little easier for myself. Also, I would like to thank all of those that came to attend Collin's funeral. It is a real tribute to the influence he had on all of us. We love him and can't wait to seem him after this life.
Amy, Paul,& Payton Brown
February 27, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this tough time. We are so sorry for your loss. Colin was well loved and respected and will truly be missed. Take comfort in knowing that you will be reunited with him in the eternities. All our love to you and your family, (from Becky McStravicks sister and brother-in-law)
Julie & Shane Costley
February 27, 2007
Our hearts are broken for the Smiths losing their sweet dad and husband. We hope they will be healed of their grief by all the good memories of Collin and the comfort the Lord will give.
T. Gould
February 26, 2007
Man, what do you say. I talked to Joe a few weeks back in Okotoks at our sons Basketball tournament, they have been playing together for a couple of years now. Joe asked me about my broken foot, how its coming along, how did it happen & how long I will be out for. With what he and his family had gone through for the last year & a half the interset & or concern he showed me that day says alot about what kind of person Joe is. To Collins family I am truely sorry for your loss. He will be missed deeply by all who knew him through life, radio or television.
Heather and Dan
February 26, 2007
Our Condolences go out to the Smith Family. Colin was a bright shinning star in the sports spotlight. May the brightness of his life forever brighten all the stars in the sky so that you may look up into the heavens and be reminded of the wonderful fulfilled life that he led not matter how bumpy the road.
Kathi (Hurd) Wilker
February 26, 2007
Collin - you will be missed by all!
February 25, 2007
Joe, You Rock! We will miss you
dearly.
Williams Family
February 25, 2007
Our prayers are with you in this time of need. He left behind great memories for many people, and he will be missed by all. We send our deepest condolences.
Bev And Darren Walstra
February 25, 2007
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Truly the best sports annoncer, ever.
February 24, 2007
07.02.24
"Joe Sports" displayed tremendous enthusiasm for his work content, environment and content and (was)will be missed. May strength empower Collin's loved ones in the coming days and months.
Sincerely, Jeanie
Darla McGuirk
February 23, 2007
He will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him either personally or through his work.
Shannon
February 23, 2007
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
ROSEMARIE SMELTER
February 23, 2007
TO Smith Family
Colin/JOE SPORTS He will be
sadly miss by all on fan960 and
Global tv CALGARY SPORT FANS ROSEMARIE, LYNNDSAY, TERRY TERRIE- LYNN SMELTER FAMILY.
Richard Sefcik
February 23, 2007
Growing up with Collins youngest brother, I was able to get to know the man they call "Joe Sports." There isn't enough that can be said about him. He was so generous. Twice he sent my father and I to a Stampeders game. He will be missed.
Gerard Brand
February 23, 2007
The thoughts and prayers of my Family are sent to you, Collin was an icon in Calgary sports and will be missed
Megan Clarke
February 23, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Rae Mackay
February 22, 2007
you were an icon to sports, I loved listening to you on CJAY. My condolences to your family and friends. From my young ones as well. RIP!!
Jeanne and David Johnson
February 22, 2007
We were so sorry to hear of Collin's passing. Even though we live in Houston, Texas now, we are Albertans at heart and enjoyed Collin all the years we lived in Calgary. He'll be missed.
GEN DodgingHOrse
February 22, 2007
we were very fond of JOE SPORTS and will be sadly missed by our family
Sandee Wilson
February 22, 2007
Sorry for your loss.
He will be missed by all.
James & Janet Ducarme
February 22, 2007
Our Deepest Sympathy from our family to yours.He was great to watch on TV and to listen to on radio.He will for sure be missed by everyone.
Mary
February 21, 2007
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jack Campbell
February 21, 2007
I am sorry about the loss of Colin he was a really fun guy to watch on Global sports.
Chris & Bernie Grenier
February 21, 2007
Mrs. Smith & Family:
When your heart is empty, filling
it with happy memories can help you find your smile.
Collin has left a huge void in the sports arena.
Our Deepest Sympathy,
Ray Schafer
February 21, 2007
Very sorry about your loss. I was very thrilled back in 2000 when Joe Sports interviewed and presented my daughter with the A-Channel Athlete of the Week award. It was a highlight in her sports career and she still speaks about it. He will be missed by all of the Athlete of the Week award winners.
"Stace and Squi" Squires
February 21, 2007
"Joe" was always entertaining: funny, incisive, and wonderfully down to earth. The Sports Update hasn't been quite the same without him. Our deepest condolences and prayers to his family.
Kevin Hansen
February 21, 2007
We will miss your voice in sports
Don, Marlene & Wendy Brooks
February 20, 2007
Our deepest sympathies to the Smith Family. We have many fond memories of Colin when he use to live down the road from us when he was a young lad. He will be sadly missed.
John
February 20, 2007
I was shocked to hear of Collin's passing. Unbelievable. Everybody, get your butts out there and run for cancer. Some of us could use the jog. VALUE YOUR HEALTH! It doesn't matter if it is lymph, breast, testicular, or prostate cancers, cancer is cancer is cancer. A cure for one helps the rest. I'm so sorry to Joe, Joe's family, and those who are his friends.
Irene Meier
February 20, 2007
My Prayers and Thoughts are with Family and Friends.
Colin brought true joy and happiness to all who watched him.
Irene Meier, Calgary
Steve & Liz Gates
February 20, 2007
Calgary Sports will definatly miss 'Joe Sports'
February 20, 2007
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Brenda
February 20, 2007
How lucky we are to know that our lives are eternal and that someday you will be reunited with this wonderful man. I pray that your sorrow will be lightened and know that he is with you always.
Lori Gardner
February 20, 2007
We are very sorry for your loss. We are only fans however, from what we knew of him Colin was an AMAZING Calgarian and we always enjoyed his sports show. He will be missed.
Mylo W. Forsyth
February 20, 2007
Sorry I missed the Service .Our thoughts and prayers are with the Smith family . I will always remember the first time seeing the Meridee and Cleon in the Crescent Road Chapel .Also the pleasure to participate in the many Choir and Music Activities she directed . I have memories and photos of some of those. My wife and I express our love and sympathy for the Smiths. Please visit or contact if there is any way we can help ease your loss . Mylo & Mat Forsyth-Calgary
Laurel Udall
February 20, 2007
Our heart and prayers go out to the SMith family. I grew up with Steve and Kelly SMith at those infamous Saturday Night dances.(LDS). The Smith family is a great one. I am sure that Collin went too. Best wishes, Laurel B. Walker Udall (formerly Matheny)
February 20, 2007
We are sorry for your loss! Endure to the end
Elaine Turner
February 20, 2007
Thanks Colin, for a great show not only on TV but in life itself. People loved your antics and humor. May your family find peace and comfort in knowing that others care.
Gerald Tonellato
February 20, 2007
It is always sad to see such young and vibrant people leaving us before they should. Much sympathy to his family and friends.
Terry & Linda Hanna
February 20, 2007
Please accept our condolances on the loss of your husband and father.
Kerri
February 20, 2007
I have often wondered how Collin "Joe Sports" was doing and was very saddened to hear of his recent passing. He was a true Calgarian. I'm very sorry to all of his family and friends for their loss. God bless you all.
Nalauney Bourne
February 20, 2007
I wish we could have attended the service yesterday. He was a great man, and his spirit will live on through his memory. He was an amazing man, and through his example he showed us how you can live your faith no matter what life throws at you. Our prayers are with you.
Malauney Bourne and Woody Crapo
Lorne Reimer
February 20, 2007
Joe Sports helped me to actually be interested in sports. He was one of those people that made it worth getting up in the morning and turning on the radio. Thanks for your family values and enthusiasm for life.
Tina Greenbank
February 20, 2007
To the Family Of Collin Smith,
I am so sad to hear of the loss of Collin.
Having lost both my parents, I understand how the loss of a loved one impacts us.
Please know that you are in my thoughts.
Very sincerely, Tina
Chris Woodhead
February 20, 2007
My deepest sympathy and best wishes to to all of Collin's family. He will be very sadly missed. He was a great guy.
Brian & Lori Kieke
February 20, 2007
We've enjoyed Collin's (Joe's) commentaries since the beginning of his CJay 92 days. He will be sadly missed, but very foundly remembered. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Smith family.
Beryl Ostrom
February 20, 2007
Colin was one of my favourite TV personalities. Thank you for sharing him with us. He will be missed.
Stuart
February 20, 2007
Saddened by Collin's passing - he was a great guy with a refreshing, informed approach - condolences to his family. He will be forever - "Joe Sports...!"
brad Hodgson
February 20, 2007
we have truly lost a canadian icon
my heart goes out to you all
may he rest in peace
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