February 27, 1942 - January 17, 2021
It is with the greatest sadness that we announce the passing of Dennis Smith, on January 17th, 2021. Dennis left this world with his loving family by his side and Merle Haggard playing on the radio. There is no doubt he is already back with his friends Larry, Dave, Barry and more, telling big stories, even bigger lies, and laughing together the way the good ol' boys used to do.
Dennis is survived by his wife Heather, son Kurt (Penny), daughter Keri (Vance), daughter Kristal (Rob), and grandchildren Brogan, Keegan, Daniel, and Johnny. He was predeceased by his parents Gustav and Elsie.
Like a great Johnny Cash song, Dennis had been everywhere. Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba on Feb 27, 1942, he lived with his family on farms in McCreary, Lake Francis, Riverside, and Minto. At age 17 he left home for Boissevain where he worked hard and played hard too.
He raced cars with his good friend Gary, and before long fell for Gary's little sister, Heather. In 1966 Dennis married the love of his life, and together they travelled west following Dennis' work, living in Bredenbury, Esterhazy, Saskatoon, and Fort Nelson (to name a few). In 1979 they finally settled in the Shuswap where Dennis and Heather raised their family, and built the business Denkurt Welding.
From stock car racing in Saskatoon to building enormous tanks in the potash mines of the prairies, Dennis lived his life to the fullest. And while his many work accomplishments earned him praise, accolades, and respect, he was most proud of one achievement - his family. Hardworking, generous, funny, and kind, Dennis will be missed by all those who had the great fortune to meet him and learn from him. His legacy and knowledge will live on through his kids, grandkids, and beyond. Men this great are never forgotten.
A celebration of life is planned for the summer, when we are free to gather again. Be ready for some good country music, a barrel of beer, and many great stories of the greatest father, husband, teacher, and friend one could ask for. Be warned though, if you don't show up you may end up with a BBQ in your tree. Just ask Winky.
Online condolences may be sent to Dennis' family through his obituary at www.bowersfuneralservice.com
Bowers Funeral Home and Crematorium