SMITH, John W.

It is with heavy heart that the family of John W. Smith announce his passing. John passed away peacefully at Collingwood General & Marine Hospital, on Friday October 27, 2023. He was the youngest son of John & Mary Smith. Predeceased by siblings, Stanley (Shirley Bowins), Jean (George McIntosh), Ruth (Milan Bilbija), Bette (Gord Smithson) and Donald.

He will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by his soulmate & wife of 55 years, Sharon; daughter Tara and husband Lee King; grandchildren Brady and Madden. John never missed an opportunity to let his family know how much he loved them and how proud he was of their accomplishments.

John was born in Collingwood in 1939 in the family home on Oak St. In his late teens, he moved north to Sudbury, ON where he started his work career with INCO Mine Rescue and Safety. He then spent several years with Ontario Correctional Services in Burwash, ON. In 1968 John returned to his hometown and 2 weeks before the plant opened, he began his 30-year career in Human Resources at L.O.F. Glass of Canada (now Pilkington). He always considered his time at L.O.F. one of his greatest successes, having helped more than 3000 people in the town, with employment.

In recognition of his volunteerism and commitment to the Town of Collingwood, John was proud to have received the Order of Collingwood and the Governor General’s Award.

He was passionate about his game of golf and in his younger years he was an accomplished down hill ski racer.

The last 10 years of his life, John survived multiple cancer treatments. Most recently, valiantly battling lung cancer and COPD Emphysema. John received kind and compassionate care from many people in our medical community. The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses & staff at CGMH & RVH Barrie; Dr. Ray Bouchard, Dr. Celeste Bouchard, Chirstine Bouchard & all staff at Bouchard Family Practice; the staff with LIHN; and all others who were part of John’s treatments and care over the years.

As per his wishes cremation has taken place and no formal services will be held. As an expression of sympathy donations in John’s memory may be made to the Collingwood General & Marine Hospital Foundation – MRI Fund or the Canadian Cancer Society. Friends may visit John's online Book of Memories at www.fawcettfuneralhomes.com