SMIT: It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Gerhard "Gerry" Smit Sr., our beloved father and opa on Saturday, January 20, 2007. Dad was born February 19, 1927 in Groningen, Netherlands and was one of three children. After a long courtship with his wife Ann, they embarked on an adventure choosing to start a new life in Canada. Dad and mom were married March 16, 1955 and immigrated to Canada. They began their lives in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, where they lived for four and a half years. Dad often spoke of their meager beginnings upon arriving in Canada and how mom could make a home with a golden touch. He often spoke of his love and how, when he met his wife, he knew she was the one. While in Nova Scotia, their two sons, Gerry and Bob were born. Their move out west took them to Boissevain and Carman, where daughter Margie was born. They then moved to Brandon in 1973. Over the years, dad and mom worked side by side, a true team. When relocating to Brandon, dad worked for the Safety Centre and taught drivers education. One of his fondest memories was joining the local Barbershop choir. Our parents also enjoyed trips back to The Netherlands, long country drives and enjoying nature. When at home, they enjoyed many family gatherings. Dad always inquired how everyone was doing. After mom's passing in 2003, he made one last trip to Europe to visit his family and a tour of B.C. with an old schoolmate. Dad was known for his wit and being a people person. Always in a good mood, he'd often tease the waitresses at his frequent lunch and coffee shops. Dad was predeceased by his parents and twin brother, Herman and by his beloved wife Ann. He will be greatly missed by his sons Gerry (Rita), Bob (Carol), daughter Margie (Rick Charney) and his grandchildren, Stacey (Devon) and Marisa; Tara and Julie (Ryan) and Daniel, Shelby and Nicky. He is also survived by; his sister, Anneke of Sweden and numerous relations in The Netherlands. Tot Ziens Dad, Opa, we love and miss you yet we are happy for you to be reunited with mom. A time of visitation for family and friends will be held at Memories Chapel, 330-18th Street North, on Thursday, January 25, 2007 from 7:00 - 8:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Augustine's Roman Catholic Church, 327-4th Street, on Friday, January 26, 2007 at 10:30 am. Celebrant will be Fr. Domenic Yuen. Interment will follow in the Brandon Cemetery. Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who wish, may make a donation in memory of Gerry to the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, #1, 613-10th Street, Brandon, MB R7A 4G6. Expressions of Sympathy may be made at www.memorieschapel.com. Arrangements are with Memories Chapel & Pre-Planning Centre, 727-0330. Memorials
Alzheimer Society of Manitoba