Obituary of Orval Smith

July 19, 1936 - Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec

December 22, 2021 - Calgary, Alberta

Orval Smith beloved husband of Rochelle Smith (nee Gauthier) of Calgary, AB, passed away on Wednesday, December 22, 2021, at the age of 85 years.

Orval was born in Rouyn-Noranda, QC, on July 19, 1936. Growing up in Northern Ontario, Orval started his work career with Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL) and Ontario Hydro before moving to Calgary, AB, in 1982 to pursue his career in the Oil-Patch.

Orval spent most of his career as a Project Planner working on oil, gas, and power projects in Canada, the Middle East, and the United States. Orval continued to work until the age of 76 because he thoroughly loved his work.  Orval enjoyed his many friendships at his workplaces and openly shared his knowledge with people starting out in the industry.

Orval’s hobbies included gardening and woodworking.  He would often remark of woodworking “make every cut like it matters… so you will have the skill to do it well when it does”.  This was a philosophy that he carried over into all aspects of his personal and work life.

Orval was a proud Canadian who held the country and all other Canadians to a high standard. Orval was especially happy living in the city of Calgary because he loved the energy, vibrancy, and can-do attitude of this city.

Orval married Rochelle Sandra Mary Gauthier in 1957.  The couple had three children, Bruce, Susan, and Paul. 

Orval is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Bruce George Smith and Susan Slocum, who reside in Kincardine, ON, and his daughter and son-in-law, Susan Brenda Thompson and Dennis Thompson, who reside in Brechin, ON.  Orval was a grandfather to five grandchildren, Jimmy, Lisa, Robbie, Leah, and Madeline.  He was predeceased by his wife Rochelle, his youngest son Paul, and his one brother Quentin.

Condolences, memories, and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

In living memory of Orval Smith, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.