Obituary of John Smith

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of John Smith of Wasa, BC on October 27, 2022.

John was born in Jacksdale, Nottinghamshire, England on March 23, 1945 to Joe and Alice Smith. From an early age he was fascinated with woodwork, metalwork and all things electrical & mechanical. In 1960 after completing high school he apprenticed with Rolls Royce Aerospace in Derby, then worked as a machinist at their branch in Nottingham.

In the summer of 1969 he met his Rose in Spain while on holiday. After returning to England they endured a long distance romance before marrying in July 1970.  A year later daughter Paula was born in August 1971, then son Paul followed later in May 1976.

In 1974 the Smith family moved to Canada where John took a machining job with Coleman Collieries. Later they moved to Sparwood in 1979, then Wasa in 1993.  John continued his machining career until retiring in 1996.

In his spare time he enjoyed a variety of activities: woodworking, fishing, camping, gardening and playing music on the keyboard/organ. He enjoyed a pint down at the local pub and made many friends in the process.

John had a meticulous eye for detail and his talent shone through in his woodwork.  His workshop was his happy place where he honed his craft over the years. He built a variety of items from small hand carved shell boxes to crib boards to Queen Anne furniture to kitchen cabinets and Victorian screen doors. He had a well-rounded knowledge of woodworking and mentored anyone who was keen to learn.

John is survived by his wife Rose, children Paul and Paula (Jay Huson), nieces and nephew. He was predeceased by his parents Joe & Alice Smith; sisters Ann (Bob) Christian and Brenda (Fred) Davis.

A celebration of life for John will be held in Wasa in March 2023.