Obituary of John Edward Smith

John Edward Smith, beloved husband of the late Eva Smith of Calgary, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 27, 2007 at the age of 93 years. John had his humble beginnings in Theodore, SK where he homesteaded and helped raise his siblings. He loved nature, animals and being outdoors. With encouragement from his mom he moved to Calgary in 1930 and eventually brought his family with him. In 1937, John and his brothers Bill and Harry formed Rolling Home Trailer Co. which was one of the first companies to manufacture trailers and motor homes. In 1939, he moved to Prince Rupert and worked on American military vehicles both personal and government during the war years. In 1942, John married Eva. John’s concern for the family’s wellbeing moved them from Prince Rupert to Calgary in 1949. They resided on 27th Avenue S.W. for 46 years in the home John built himself for his family. John trained to be an auto body mechanic with General Motors. John had a deep devotion and love for his family and in his last years he resided with his children. John is survived by his four children, Bill (Teddy) of Nanaimo, B.C., Donna (Greg) Olsen of Calgary, Bev (Gerry) Sharpe of Courtney, B.C., and Rick (Tina) of Calgary; fifteen grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren. He is also survived by one sister, Mary Ranger of High River, AB. John was predeceased by his wife Eva, one granddaughter, nine bothers, and four sisters. A Celebration of John’s Life will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Crowfoot Chapel (82 Crowfoot Circle, N.W.) on Monday, December 31, 2007 at 2:30 p.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made to any children’s charity of one’s choice. The family wishes to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the staff at Carewest Signal Pointe for their dedicated care and compassion. In living memory of John Smith, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Crowfoot Chapel, 82 CROWFOOT CIRCLE N.W. Telephone: (403) 241-0044.