We Remember
SMITH, E. D. Geoffrey
October 7, 2024 — January 1, 1970
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our father, brother, uncle, grandfather and dear friend, Geoff Smith at the Kelowna Hospice on the 16th of March. After surviving prostate cancer in 2006, he again faced a short and heroic battle with this disease over the past several months. Geoff passed away peacefully at Hospice House in Kelowna with family and loved ones at his side. His faith in God and the miraculous gift of the last few months spent with family and friends at the Hospice and, during his brief respite, in Palm Springs, allowed him to pass from this world in peace and serenity.
Geoff was born on September 24th, 1937 in Grimsby, Ontario. Son of Leon and Roberta Smith, and Grandson of E.D. Smith, he was the 6th generation of Smith’s to be born and raised in nearby Winona, dating back to 1776. Geoff went to high school at Shawnigan Lake Boys School, graduating in 1956.Upon graduating, he attended UBC for two years before eventually starting into a successful career in life insurance and financial planning.
Following his retirement in 1996, Geoff became increasingly active in his church, including supporting several missions in Central America. He mentored ex-prisoners, recovering addicts and other troubled individuals as they re-established themselves in the community. He will be forever remembered for his gift of time and energy to helping those less fortunate than himself to find their way in this world. He has also left a legacy with the Evangel Church and various charitable organizations which they support.
He met and married Judy Elizabeth Cranston and they married in 1963 and had three sons, Derek, Ian and Kevin. He later remarried in 1991 to Joan Birks. Geoff is survived by his sisters, Sheila and Marion, brother Thurston, his three sons and six grandchildren. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 20th at 2:00 pm at Evangel Church, 3261 Gordon Drive, Kelowna, BC. In lieu of flowers, Geoff has respectfully asked his friends to consider a donation to a homeless shelter or charity of their choice. If you wish to send a condolence, post photos or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Share Your Condolences.”
Service
Saturday, April 20th at 2:00 pm
Location
Evangel Church
Share with Others:
In lieu of flowers, Geoff has respectfully asked his friends to consider a donation to a homeless shelter or charity of their choice.
Service Information
Service Details
The service for SMITH, E. D. Geoffrey is scheduled for Saturday, April 20th at 2:00 pm . Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.
Address & Contact for Service Location:
Evangel Church
3261 Gordon Drive Kelowna, BC
Phone:
Special Requests:
None.
Funeral Pointers:
Condolences
Hello Derek, Ian, and Kevin
I was saddened to read your fathers obituary in the local newspaper, seven years after his initial diagnosis of prostate cancer. It brought back memories for me, as I was so fortunate to have had the support of your father in helping me organize students for the New World Educational cruise in the 1980s. He was so helpful, such an inspiration, a fabulous organizer, and just a wonderful caring individual. All three of you boys have been blessed with those very fine traits that your father modelled, and of course your mother too. I feel privileged to have had contact with all of you through my role as a teacher.
All three of you were, and no doubt are today,wonderful young men.
The loss of your father through prostate cancer is most troubling for me, as I too am fighting the same battle that your father finally succumbed to.
My deepest sympathy to all of you.
Jack van Beers
Former teacher ( Seaton secondary)
It is with great sadness that I’ve learned of the passing of a very special friend – Geoff Smith.
I enjoyed a brief visit with Geoff last July in Kelowna. His kindness and generosity will be long remembered.
Thanks for the memories Friend. I look forward to meeting you again on that great Resurrection Day.
Dear Derek, Ian and Kevin
Our family was saddened to hear about the loss of your father. We have so many memories of your dad from years gone past. Whether it was permission for dip in your pool, a game of tennis or a ride up to Silver Star, we remember Mr. Smith as a kind and generous person. That said, we also remember you 3 boys high tailing it up the road when curfew was up. If he had to drive down to call you home, you knew he meant business. I remember Nancy Green races, both at Tillicum and Silver Star where your dad officiated. If he was at the top of the gate, he’d always give us a word of encouragement. I also remember Ian and myself skiing all the way down from the Star when we couldn’t get a ride home once, both of us in a bit of trouble for all the scratches our skis incurred getting home. So many memories from so many years ago, may the memories you have of a very special man comfort you and may you find peace in the legacy he left.
Sincerely,
The Skultety Family
Dear Derek, Kevin, and Ian,
Although it has been many years I recently was thinking about your dad (during planning of a road trip) and came across this obituary with sadness. I remember multiple family visits in Toronto. I believe an arranged marriage was organized (not sure to which of you I was offered) after he did handstands and we ate watermelon. I was clearly very young but can remember his laugh and loving manner. It has always been felt even with the passage of time. I’m sending warm thoughts and hugs from Peterborough, Ontario. Hoping you are all well. The Westaway Gang