Richard Wills Smith

It is with sad hearts we announce the passing of our husband, father, grandfather and friend, Richard (Rick) Wills Smith of Minitonas, Manitoba, at home on Sunday November 5th, 2017 at the age of 68.

Rick was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba on May 21st, 1949 to Richard (Dick) Lowe Smith and Edna Smith. He attended Miles Mac Collegiate in Winnipeg and graduated in 1967. From there he started his career as a parts man with General Motors.

In 1973, Rick met Edith Ames and they married on April 6th, 1974. Following their marriage, they had 2 daughters and lived briefly in Stonewall, Manitoba. Shortly thereafter they made the big move out west to Calgary, Alberta where Rick continued working for General Motors.

In 1991, Rick and Edith moved the family south of Calgary to Okotoks where they opened their successful Janitorial Company that lasted 20 plus years. During the time Rick also worked part time for the local newspaper, “The Western Wheel” delivering papers all throughout the foothills. He always did love to drive!

In 2007, they made a big move back to Minitonas, Edith’s home town, where they retired.

For those who knew Rick well, knew him for his witty remarks, jokes, laughter and all around good times. He was an avid Camper, huge classic rock music lover and a collector of VHS movies and boxing matches. He always enjoyed a good rum and coke over a game of cards with friends and family, and those are the moments we all will remember him most for.

Rick is survived by his wife of 43 years, Edith; two daughters Angela Regimbald (Ron) and Jana Brown; three grandchildren; Madelyn Regimbald, Taryn and Nolan Brown (and their father Jerry). He was predeceased by his parents Dick and Edna Smith.

Rick will be sorely missed by all who knew or met him “Cheers” to Rick!!