It is with deep sadness that the family of Rod Smith announces his passing after a brief illness at the age of 74.
Rod will be lovingly remembered by his wife Ellen; son Jared (Jessica); son-in-law Craig; grandchildren: Madeline, Kai, and Erika; brother Lorne (Brenda) as well as many other relatives and close friends. He was predeceased by his daughter Lora.
Dad was a wonderful character, and his fantastic laugh (including big knee slaps) will be greatly missed. Due to the current gathering restrictions, we will be postponing Dad’s desire to have us throw him a big party, but we encourage all those who knew him to pour a rum & coke (or two) at happy hour in a toast to his life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Youth Empowerment Support & Services (YESS), 9310 82 Ave, Edmonton, Alberta, T6C 0Z6.
Tribute wall - a place to share your memories and condolences
Audrey Ball
Èllen I just heard of Rod passing away. I am sorry to hear it. He was a wonderful man. My sincerest sympathies to you, Jared and famiy.
Audrey
Konnie Kranenburg
Ellen, Jared and Family
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Rod’s passing!
We were friends way back in the day, and I remember him fondly, with his wicked laugh!
You all have my condolences, and I will certainly raise a glass in his honor…
Bob Dawe
Ellen, Jarod and Jessica – I was extremely saddened to hear of Rod’s passing, you have my deepest condolences for your loss. I have nothing but the fondest of memories of him.
William F Partington
Ellen, Jared, Jessica & family,
We were so shocked and saddened by the news of Rod’s passing. It is extremely difficult to find the words that would somehow convey our feelings. As you know we treasured the moments of catching up with you and Rod on the driveway, in the backyard, or in Hawaii. Heather and I will miss him greatly.
Danielle Pavelich
The Smiths were our neighbors for over 20 years and such wonderful family friends. Mr. Smith was such a wonderful man with the BEST laugh. He was always so sweet with my sisters and I. I’m so so sorry for your loss.
Love Danielle Pavelich
DARLENE CAVANAUGH
My heartfelt sorrow goes to Ellen and the family on hearing about the tragic news of Rod’s death. I too will miss his laugh and friendly wave across the yard at the lake.
Vi Spratt
Ellen, my sincere condolences to you and your family. Ron and I always looked forward to your visits when we came to Edmonton to visit our family..
The Callan Family
The Smiths were our neighbors for 24 years. Rod never had anything but a smile on his face and always gave us that big laugh Jarod refered to above. So many great memories of a great neighbor but better friend not only to Diane and I but to our 3 daughters. Ellen, Jarod and family our heartfelt condolences.
Colin O’Neill
Aunty Ellen and Jared I’m so sorry for your loss. Rod was one of my mentors and his advice helped shape my direction of my career.
I always loved that he could make you feel so welcome and important even if you had not seen him in some time. I will miss him and that great big laugh!!
Ken and Darlene Duggan
Ellen and Family, we are so sorry to hear of Rod’s passing. He was such a great guy, from our youth to his very untimely death, Rod was such an enjoyable larger than life character. The comment in his obit is so correct, will always remember his laugh. We feel fortunate to have known him. Thoughts are with you all at this time. And Lorne, so sorry on the loss of your brother. Best regards, Ken and Darlene Duggan
Trina Gabrielle
I heard of your father’s passing from Les Lakusta on the weekend. I am deeply saddened by this. Working for Rod at Independent Insurance was some of the best times of my life. We shared a lot of experiences, laughs, card games and drinks. He will be greatly missed.
Ed Darrah Darrah
It is with deep heart that Isabelle and I learned from Peter White that Rod had passed away. Our hearts feel for Ellen and the family. We will always remember the good times at the Glenora and elsewhere. Our running group, even though it has passed, was a fond memory that was enjoyed daily for many years. Please accept our condolences.
Ed and Isabelle Darrah
Bonnie Frederick
Ellen, Jarod and family. I am so sorry to hear of Rod’s passing. I knew Rod since we were teenagers and he was also my and my families insurance agent. Since a young man he was always quick to laugh and one of the kindest people I have ever known. I can only imagine how difficult this must be to say good bye to Rod.