Obituary of Larry Raeburn "Rae" Smith

On Monday, July 15, 2019, Larry Raeburn "Rae" Smith passed away in his sleep in his 90th year at the Drumheller hospital.  

Born in Harwich Township, Ontario, Rae was the son of the late Grace (Bicum) and Roy Smith.  He was the loving husband of Virginia (nee Paling), for over 69 years and cherished father of 6 children; Susan (James), Enos of Hanna, Alberta, Roy (Katherine) Smith of Drumheller, Alberta, Luanne (Keven) St. Michael of Espanola, Ontario, Peggy (Ron) Preston of Brooks, Alberta, Edward Smith of Sylvan Lake, Alberta, Ruthann (James) Page of Drumheller, Alberta. Dear grandfather of 21 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.  

Brother of Betty Thomas of Blenheim, and the late Jean Cowley. Also survived by his sister-in-law Shirley Pokornik of Blenheim and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends near and far.

Rae and his wife Virginia farmed in Blenheim for several years and then in 1970 they moved with their family to Manitoulin Island where he and his wife owned and operated “Mountainside Mobile Homes”, and “Virginia’s Place”.  Rae was a self taught man, a skilled carpenter, he enjoyed working in his shop, and loved making things for other people.  You name it—he could fix it!

He was most known for his big heart, his jolly laugh, his powerful voice (he never needed to use a microphone) and most of all, his positive attitude and strong faith. He and Virginia especially enjoyed travelling with their fifth-wheel to Arizona, Florida, and many other parts of Canada and the U.S., making many dear friends along the way. After retiring in 2014, they moved to Drumheller, Alberta to be closer to their children and grandchildren whom he loved very much.

A Memorial Service will be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 207 17th Street, N.W., Drumheller, Alberta on Saturday, September 14, 2019 at 3:00 p.m.  

Online condolences may be left at mckinlayfuneralhome.com.