We Remember

SMITH, Leslie William “Bill”

April 16, 1940 — April 14, 2024

Bill Smith passed away in his home, surrounded by family on a sunny spring afternoon after a long battle with dementia. He will forever be remembered as a thoughtful brother, father, and grandfather.

He leaves treasured memories to his brother Henry (Erika); his children Treva (Mike) and Jodee (Grant); his grandchildren Caliena and Landen (Christine); and his great-grandson Wilson, whom he was able to meet. Numerous joyful occasions were shared with his niece Laurel (Dave); and nephews Ken (Angeline) and Murray (Barb).

Born Leslie William Smith on April 16, 1940, Bill was a man of simple pleasures. He lived in Kelowna for over 40 years and loved to call this city home; he enjoyed walking along the beaches and boardwalks at Okanagan lake. Bill found enjoyment in the company of family and friends, he had a quick wit and a smart sense of humour that was best enjoyed with coffee and cake.

Let us not forget Bill’s sweet tooth! Besides candy and cakes, he was a true connoisseur of the fruits of the region. Bill had a particular weakness for the juicy cherries plucked fresh from his own trees, the envy of the neighbourhood. Even when he moved to a smaller home, he knew where to find the best B.C. cherries, blueberries, and peaches. And what of his wanderlust? Bill’s adventures took him far and wide, none more cherished than his trips to Mexico, where he revelled in the vibrant culture and the camaraderie of the friends he met along the way.

Despite his mental decline in the last decade of his life, Bill continued to crack jokes, smile, and was endlessly optimistic. Bill’s family wishes to thank the wonderful nurses and staff at Hawthorn Park and Orchard Manor for making his final chapter as safe, comfortable, and cheerful as possible.

For those looking for a way to offer sympathy to the family or to honour Bill, please consider donating to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

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Alzheimer Society of Canada Link: alzheimer.ca

 


 


Condolences

  • Donna McLean says:
    April 18, 2024 at 4:23 pm

    So sorry for your loss! Bill was a very sweet nice man that I enjoyed meeting with Treva on one occasion and with Christine and Landen another time. I hope that your memory of him brings you comfort at this difficult time.
    Donna and Doug McLean

    Reply
  • Pam Morgan says:
    April 19, 2024 at 12:20 pm

    I have fond memories of dear, sweet Bill at our workplace, and then during breakfast and coffee meetings after his retirement. What a privilege to have had him in your lives! I wish you heaps of happy memories.

    Reply

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