Our cherished loved one passed away peacefully at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre on March 15, 2026 surrounded by his family.

Don was in his 87th year and will be forever missed.

Loving husband of Darlene Smith (nee Allen). Cherished father of Brian Smith (Neisha), Elaine Rebidoux (Mike), Colleen Gignac, Bruce Smith (April MacLean), Susanne Hawthorne (Dave) and Jason Smith (Jenn).

Treasured grandfather of Justin, Rachel, Brandon, Brett, Ashley, Mitchell, Jared, Daniel, Nicholas, Mason, Teegan, and all the others who have joined the flock along the way.

Great grandchildren Danica, Theo, Maya and Emery always brought smiles to Don’s face.

Cherished brother of George, Raymond, Joyce, Gord, Marg, Donna, Helen and Bob. Predeceased by his siblings, Lloyd, Russell, Ralph, Leo, Bill, Gerald, Eileen, Ed, Jean and Jim. Loving son of the late Adelbert and Laura Smith.

Don will be missed by many nieces, nephews and friends.

Don began his life in the farming community of Zurich, ON where he grew and flourished with his wonderful parents and 18 siblings. It is here that his faith, commitment to others, great work ethic, joy for pranks, card games and gardening and such began.

He then met Darlene who put a twinkle in his eye and filled his dance card for life. They moved to Barrie to start their married life together and this is where they raised their family.

Don worked tirelessly to provide for his family and yet somehow always found the time and energy to create fun. He is a man who never asked for much for himself, always humble, kind and always willing to help others and put them first.

We as a family could not have asked for someone with greater selfless devotion or a better role model than we have with him.

Donations may be made to the Canadian Lung Association   or Holy Spirit Parish   in Don’s honour.

“Forever in our Hearts” We will be with you again.

CONDOLENCES

25 Condolences
  • Ellen Doyle
    Posted on: Thursday, March 19, 2026 Reply

    Justin and family, sending hugs and love to you all as you navigate this very sad time. So sorry for the loss of Grampa Smith. Ellen

  • Ron & Sandra Dickett
    Posted on: Thursday, March 19, 2026 Reply

    Darlene and family and the Smith family we are saddened to hear of Don’s passing many good times will be remembered at the round table meetings which we were often honoured to attend. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Sandra & Ron Dickert

  • Jason Smith
    Posted on: Thursday, March 19, 2026 Reply

    Who is Donald George Smith?
    He is a man of great faith. He is a loved Brother of many. He is a great husband to Darleen. He is a great father to all of his children. He is the best grandpa any grandchild and great grandchild could ask for.
    You ask how I define great? A man who does not complain. A man who would put others before himself. A hard working man, who would always make time for family and friends, for fixing the cars, or giving a hand to those that need it. A caring man that wears his heart on his sleeve, that loved his family to no end, who was welcoming to anybody in his home and life. Donald was a man of very few words, but you always knew you were safe or welcomed, cared for and Loved. He is a man who has enriched the lives of every one of us who had the pleasure of knowing Don! We all have lost an amazing person from our lives, but we know he is still looking out for us while in heaven. I also know that heaven has received a wonderful soul and Don is home with his brothers, sisters and friends who are welcoming him. Don will truly be missed and never forgotten! Love you Dad!

  • Doug and Karen Kemp
    Posted on: Thursday, March 19, 2026 Reply

    Dear Elaine, Mike and family

    Our sincere sympathy on the loss of your father. Sounds like he was a wonderful man. Hugs to all of you

  • Tom Smith
    Posted on: Thursday, March 19, 2026 Reply

    He was always Uncle Donny to us as kids.
    Our sincerest condolences to you Darlene and the family.
    I can only imagine the fantastic impression he made on the grandkids and great-grandkids as he did on us, when were growing up and our families spent some visiting time together.
    He always made us laugh. Our prayers are with you.

    Tom and Gail Smith

  • Bob and Joanne Black
    Posted on: Thursday, March 19, 2026 Reply

    We did not know Don but do know he produced a wonderful family. Our sincere condolences to all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

  • Robert and Charlene (Allen) Lee
    Posted on: Thursday, March 19, 2026 Reply

    Dear Aunt Darlene and cousins. We will miss Uncle Don and the brightness he brought to a room. Praying for God’s comfort and strength to you all at this time, for the Lord is close to the broken hearted. Ps34:18

  • Patti Hunt
    Posted on: Friday, March 20, 2026 Reply

    So many memories but I think my favourite one is the phone calls from the phone booth down the street: “Get to the liquor store, we’re on the way.”
    We, assuming he was calling from Barrie, had quite the surprise when the family showed up 5 minutes later😁
    Rest in peace Uncle Don, play some solo up there with your brothers and sisters💕

  • Donald & Nola Gruchy
    Posted on: Friday, March 20, 2026 Reply

    Darlene and family – we are so very saddened to hear about Don’s passing. We will always remember him as a devoted husband and father and someone who loved a good laugh and card game. Unfortunately we can’t make the funeral as we are in Jamaica however, we will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers. May Don rest in peace.

  • kathy robinson
    Posted on: Friday, March 20, 2026 Reply

    My deepest sympathies to you Darlene and the rest of your family. What a legacy your husband leaves but also what a hole in your lives. Treasure your beautiful memories. Hugs, Kathy

  • Annette & Warren Leibovitch
    Posted on: Friday, March 20, 2026 Reply

    Darlene, sorry to hear of Don’s passing. Keeping you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. Blessings and peace.

  • Marianne Pushavetz
    Posted on: Friday, March 20, 2026 Reply

    Dear Colleen, Elaine, Susanne, Brian, Bruce, Jason, Rachel, Brett and Darlene: I hope that your many memories of your dad/grandpa/husband will bring you comfort and make you smile. I didn’t know him well but I do remember being in Cuba with him and a few of you, and discovering his gentle humour on that trip and what a nice man he was. I am very sorry for your loss.

  • Marie Dechman
    Posted on: Friday, March 20, 2026 Reply

    My love goes out to Darlene and family. I cannot be with you to hug and cry together, but Don knows that I will always be there to support my older, loving cousin. God bless, Marie

  • Nicholas Smith
    Posted on: Friday, March 20, 2026 Reply

    Donald Smith or as I called him grandpa was one of the biggest role models I had in my life and I couldn’t have been more blessed to have someone as caring thoughtful and honest in my life, its a struggle to put into words how much he meant to me or how much I will miss him. I know he will continue to watch over the family and be proud of the people he influenced us all to be and I only hope that I can keep on making him proud until I get to see him next

  • Elaine Rebidoux
    Posted on: Friday, March 20, 2026 Reply

    To my Daddy,

    You are forever in my heart, forever on my mind, and your name will be forever spoken about. Although you have left this earth, you still are the head of our beautiful family. I will still look for your advice in my prayers. You will still make me laugh as I reminisce of your quick wit, the sparkle in your eye and your smirk. I wish to thank you for allowing me the privilege of being your first daughter.

    Love and prayers forever, your daughter Elaine.

  • Deb and John Procyk
    Posted on: Saturday, March 21, 2026 Reply

    We came to know Don through the many Smith celebrations over the years. We will always remember his quiet demeanour but keen sense of humour and always enjoyed the conversations we had with him. We will miss you Don.
    Rest in peace.
    Our sincerest condolences to the family.

  • Renee Hodgins
    Posted on: Saturday, March 21, 2026 Reply

    My sincerest condolences aunt Darlene and family. Sending you all virtual hugs from little ol hensall.

  • Paula & Bill Bridges
    Posted on: Sunday, March 22, 2026 Reply

    So very sorry Darlene and family to hear of the passing of this wonderful man. In our time spent in Barrie in 1997 were richer in coming to know Don. He offered us so much hospitality and friendship at a time when we were away from our family and friends that we felt part of his family. He accepted us with his quiet humour, joked that he couldn’t understand our accent, always ready for a beer or two and long chats about life in general. You leave us with great memories as a special mate.

  • Menard Family
    Posted on: Sunday, March 22, 2026 Reply

    Our most sincere condolences Smith Family !
    Our hearts and prayers are with you at this sad time. Love Don, Leslie, Brock, Mitchell & Sara xxoo 💙

  • Suzanne sharples
    Posted on: Sunday, March 22, 2026 Reply

    Dear Aunt Darlene and family
    Sincere condolences to all. You are in our thoughts and in our hearts
    Sending love and hugs
    The sharples family

  • Ingrid & Jim Visser (nee Huitema)
    Posted on: Monday, March 23, 2026 Reply

    To Darlene and family!
    We are so saddened to hear of the passing of Don. When I think of the neighbours we had growing up, the Smith family is definitely one of the first that comes to mind. You are all in our thoughts and sending each of you love, hugs and prayers. 💕

  • Carol Tucker
    Posted on: Wednesday, March 25, 2026 Reply

    Uncle Don always had a quick smile and fun story to share with us kids. I have fond memories of our time visiting with them all in Barrie. May he rest now in peace. His legacy lives on through you all. Much love Carol Tucker(Kendall)

  • Sue Piche
    Posted on: Wednesday, March 25, 2026 Reply

    Dear Darlene:

    My deepest condolence to you and your family for your loss. May the happy memories of Don bring comfort and peace during this difficult time. Take care.

    Sincerely,
    Sue

  • Teresa Boncardo
    Posted on: Friday, March 27, 2026 Reply

    Uncle Don … few words … exceptional kindness … mischievous grin. The angels got a good one, I’m sorry you had to let him go. Love and prayers, Teresa (Kendall) Boncardo

  • Tom & Karen Klein Gebbinck
    Posted on: Saturday, April 4, 2026 Reply

    So sorry to hear of Don’s passing. Such wonderful memories of our time together (although a long time ago!!). Darlene you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

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