Dennis Smith
Born In: SYDNEY, Nova Scotia, Canada
Born: July 18th, 1947
Passed in: Skir Dhu, Nova Scotia, Canada
Passed on: February 16th, 2011
After a courageous three-year battle with cancer, Dennis Smith, 63, of Skir Dhu, Victoria County, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Feb. 16, 2011, at the Victoria County Memorial Hospital, Baddeck.
Born in Sydney on July 18, 1947, he was the oldest of four children born to the late Alexander and Evelyn (MacDermid) Smith and was the cherished husband and friend of Nancy (MacInnes) for 44 years. Dennis will forever be remembered by his beloved children, Lorraine (Abraham) Bona, Melanie Smith, Lynette (Jerry) Emberly and Terence (Jolie) Smith; treasured grandchildren, Tristan and Tyler Bona, Josh, Kaitlyn and Sydney Emberly and Brandon, Riley and Samuel Smith. He leaves behind his brothers, Donald (Sonia) Smith and David (Mary Claire) Smith and sister, Mary (Roger) Hankey; along with nephews, Jason and Matthew; nieces, Charmaine, Christene, Rebecca, Emily and Katherine; grandnieces, Jessica and Ciara; and countless other friends and family, who were blessed to know him.
Besides his parents, Dennis was predeceased by his grandson, Daniel Wayne Bona.
Dennis was trained and worked as a medical lab technician but his passion was fishing lobster. He loved to be on the water and was in awe of the natural beauty that surrounded him every day. He was committed to improving the fishing community at large by attending countless meetings at home and across the country as past president of Local 6 Maritime Fishermen’s Union and past vice-president for Nova Scotia. He served on numerous committees related to his vocation.
Dennis was an avid golfer. As a member and former president of the Cape Breton Highland Links golf course, he was proud to be involved in the golf course’s restoration. He was fortunate enough to be able to play and watch his favourite pastime up until his passing.
He served as an elder of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church.
Throughout his illness, Dennis maintained his wonderful sense of humour and a positive outlook; he regarded each day he was given as a special gift. His strength and dignity were an inspiration to all.
The family would like to take this opportunity to thank all the wonderful people at the Cape Breton Cancer Centre and Victoria County Memorial Hospital, who gave such wonderful care to Dennis during his time of need.
Friends and family are invited to attend the wake service on Saturday, Feb. 19, 2011, between the hours of 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. and the funeral service at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 20, 2011, both to be held at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, North River Bridge, Rev. Marion Barclay-MacKay officiating. A reception will be held directly following the funeral service and all are welcome to join.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of MacAskill Funeral Home, Baddeck.
In lieu of flowers, friends and family may make a donation to the Cape Breton Cancer Centre or a charity of one’s choice.
