SMITH, Donald Campbell - Peacefully in his sleep after a short illness at North York General Hospital, Toronto on October 4, 2018. Born July 25, 1922 in Detroit, Michigan.
Beloved husband of the late Phyllis (Miles) Smith.
Adored father of Donald, Elizabeth ( deceased) Pamela Scarrow (Mark) and Andrew (Leslie Ann Bent) and loving grandfather to William, John and Fiona Scarrow.
Don was raised by his grandparents and great aunts in Edinburgh, Scotland where he was a good student and keen athlete.
Upon graduation he served as Captain with the Armoured Corps of the British Army in North Africa and Pantelleria, Italy during World War II in the capacity as a wireless operator/gunner in a tank. After the War, Don continued his military service in Egypt and Cyprus, including managing the massive post war flow of migrants trying to get to Palestine.
In 1952, Don married his wartime sweetheart Phyllis Miles, who had moved to Montreal to be with him. They lived in Montreal raising their children while pursuing a career that took them across Europe and Canada. After a two year secondment to London, U.K., Don’s career moved the family back to Montreal and then on to Toronto and Calgary where Don ultimately retired at age 65.
In retirement, Don pursued his favourite pastimes of cross country skiing, travelling, golfing and dog walking.
Following Phyl’s death in 1992, Don returned to Ontario to be closer to his children. He met his beloved companion, the late Mary Pope with whom he lived and travelled for another 20 years. Her children Elizabeth, Deborah and Casey and their families became a cherished part of Don’s extended family.
By age 91 and no longer able to drive, Don moved to Amica Bayview Gardens where he enjoyed frequent visits from his children, regular walks in the local park, playing the piano and attending various activities with his devoted caregivers Ricardo, Marilyn and Eileen.
Don will be remembered and missed by all who knew him for his busy zest for life, and as an example of dedication, duty, and a positive, practical approach to life.
Visitation will take place on Tuesday, October 9, 2018 from 5-9 pm at Chapel Ridge Funeral Home, Markham. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, October 10, 2018 at 10 am also at Chapel Ridge.
Donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke foundation and/or the Salvation Army.
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