David John SMITH

SMITH, David John, B.Sc, LL.B, ICD.D
November 13, 1934 - August 9, 2012.
Dearly loved husband, father, brother, uncle, respected lawyer and loyal friend, David passed away suddenly at home. He will be deeply missed by his wife of 35 years, Marjorie Wild, his daughter Julia and son-in-law Kevin Grant; brother Archie (Margaret) of Boulder, Colorado; sister-in-law Catherine Wild (Kirk Kelly) of Montreal; brother-in-law Bruce (Marian) Wild of Barrie, Ontario; and his many nieces and nephews. David was pre- deceased by his parents, Ruth (Manuel) and Andrew; his brother Malcolm; and his sister Jean Tague.Born in Edmonton, David was the youngest of four, and enjoyed life there through to high school graduation, achieving the Alberta gold medal for excellence. His favourite memories of those years included camping trips, being quarterback of his high school football team, and the Model A coupe he co-owned with his brother, Malcolm. Intellectually curious and adventurous, David studied at McGill University on a full scholarship, graduating with honours in Physics and Math. Following graduation, David and two of his friends from Edmonton sailed from New York to Barcelona on their way to great adventures in Europe and Great Britain. Eating 'real' Italian pizza and touring the Mercedes Benz plant in Stuttgart were highlights. On his return, David came to live with his parents, now in Vancouver, and, unsure what to pursue next, decided to enrol in law school at UBC. Thus began his passion for the practice of law, and a 47-year career with Lawson Lundell LLP in Vancouver and Calgary, in corporate and commercial law. David was highly regarded by his colleagues and clients who understood that his thoughtful reserve and intellectual rigour were equally matched by his deep enjoyment of the intensity of the business world. Dedicated to high standards of corporate governance, he never hesitated to go the extra mile. As a mentor, David took pleasure in helping young lawyers hone their skills and reach their potential. Following his retirement from Lawson Lundell LLP, David became a Commissioner with the B. C. Securities Commission, and continued working as a legal consultant and corporate Director. Generous with his family and friends, David was a loving husband and father, gracious host and dedicated traveller. Whether it was entertaining at home, exploring wine regions around the world, walking the Kamaole beaches on Maui, going on father-daughter fishing trips, or doing crosswords and Mensa sudoku, he enjoyed it all. His passion for hockey and football and a good hot dog are well-known, as is his love of opera, Mozart and skiing, both on water and on snow. The Chicago Bears & Chicago Cubs have lost a dedicated supporter. The family sincerely appreciates the excellent care provided to David through his recent illness by Dr. Paul Yenson and over many years by Dr. Arthur Harpur. A memorial reception for David will be held on Tuesday, August 28, 2012, in the Vancouver Island Room at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm.If you wish to make a donation in David's memory, please consider the Canucks for Kids Fund, Right to Play or your favourite charity.