Obituary of Rodger N. Smith

February 14, 1947 – Toronto, Ontario
October 14, 2021 – Calgary, Alberta

Rodger Smith, beloved husband of Linda, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 14, 2021, at the age of 74 years.

Along with Linda, Rodger is survived by his daughter Allison Atkinson (Ian), and his son Kevin (Jane), as well as his seven grandchildren, Lachlan, Stella, Liam, Vivienne, Ryan, Juliet, and Alexandria.  Never leaving his side, he will also be greatly missed by his dog Beau. 

Rodger was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, graduating from George Brown College with a diploma in Civil Engineering Technology.  Rodger and Linda were married in 1971, and after a visit to the Rockies, they decided the mountains were calling, relocating from Toronto to Calgary in 1972, never looking back.  Rodger found work plentiful in the west and would entertain his young family each night, sharing animated tales of his days spent on site and outdoors.  Thoroughly enjoying a long career in his field, he humbly took pride in the completion of many roads, bridges, communities, and parks in and around the Calgary area. These special places are enjoyed by many, everyday.

Aside from his career, Rodger had a passion for the outdoors and loved the freedom of exploration.  He and Linda spent a lifetime discovering the mountains, prairies, remote roads, and partially covered trails that surrounded them, delighting in finding little hidden gems to which they often returned.  Rodger loved camping, hiking, fishing, and geocaching. He always sought to learn about his environment, as well as the trees, plants and animals who called it their home. This passion for nature has been passed on to all who knew him, especially his children and grandchildren.

Rodger was a loving man with the kindest heart and most gentle soul.  He leaves behind a playbook of lessons and adventures for his family to take pride in, live by and share with others. Undoubtedly, Rodger’s favorite line (aside from his many jokes) was “KISS – keep it simple stupid.”  This is just what we intend to do. 

We will love you, Rodger, Dad and Grampi, always and all ways.

As per Rodger’s wishes, a private and intimate memorial will be shared by his family in time. If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Sage Centre & Rosedale Hospice #1245 – 70 Avenue S.E., Calgary, AB T2H 2X8 Telephone: (403) 284 – 5195. Condolences, memories, and photos may also be shared and viewed here. Our family would like to extend a profound thank you to all the loving staff and volunteers who respectfully cared for Rodger and his family during his final days.  This sacred place, perched on the bank of the Bow River, will forever be a part of our hearts.

In living memory of Rodger Smith, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area.