Obituary of Earl Wayne Lewis SMITH

November 16, 1954 – October 16, 2011 Earl “Wayne” Lewis Smith of Calgary, passed away peacefully at Chinook Hospice on Sunday, October 16, 2011 after a difficult and courageous battle with colon cancer at the age of 56 years. Wayne was born on November 16, 1954 in Manitoba and spent the early part of his life growing up with his five siblings on the family farm in St. Charles, Manitoba. In his mid-twenties, he moved to Calgary where he lived for the rest of his life. Wayne worked at several jobs in Calgary but found his true calling when he started working as an associate in the photo lab at the Shawnessy Walmart. Evidence of the indelible impression he left may be found in the many co-workers who became loyal friends, as well as the innumerable customers who would recognize and approach him long after he had to stop working due to failing health. His ability to make friends easily was his hallmark. He lived but one short year at the seniors’ residence, Willow Park on the Bow, but made the most of it. There, his new friends admired his cheerful attitude despite facing monumental health challenges. Wayne will be sadly missed by brothers, Carl (Brenda Winch) Smith and Nelson (Susan) Boychuk of Winnipeg, Daniel Boychuk of Okotoks, Ronald (Suzanne) Boychuk of White Rock, BC; and sister Constance (Douglas) Waddell of Victoria, BC. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews as well as great-nieces and great-nephews. His dear friends will cherish the shared good times and his wonderful sense of humour. Funeral Services will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Fish Creek Chapel (14441 Bannister Road S.E.) on Wednesday, October 26, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. Wayne’s ashes will be laid to rest in the family plot at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens in Winnipeg at a later date. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the charity of the donor’s choice. A special thank you is extended to his very close friend, Elaine Dyrda who remained so supportive throughout his illness. The family also wishes to thank the devoted team of Palliative Home Care nurses and caregivers who ministered to Wayne during the last months of his life. Special thanks to Shirley, whose humour matched that of Wayne’s and whose loving care allowed him to remain in his home until a few short weeks before his death. In living memory of Wayne Smith, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Fish Creek Chapel, 14441 BANNISTER ROAD S.E. Telephone: (403) 256-9575.