Darrel Smith

Darrel Smith, age 90, passed away on Wednesday, January 4, 2023 in Kyle, SK. Darrel McLean Smith was born on January 2, 1933 to Cecil & Ruthe Smith in Tuberose, SK and grew up helping on the family farm at Sanctuary, SK. He married Darlene Hesla on June 7, 1958 in Saskatoon, SK and they made their home in Kyle, where they raised their three sons — Rick (October 27, 1958), Brent (January 17, 1961), and Drew (December 25, 1962).

Darrel was very involved in his community and received the “Citizen of the Year” award twice, which his family was very proud of. He worked tirelessly at the old curling rink making ice and curling draws for 64 teams back in the day. He was actively involved in the new rink making ice there as he apparently knew what he was doing. He spent many hours manicuring the infield at the ball diamond for the Merchants — they by far had the best diamond in the league! Darrel also travelled with the Merchants to the Western Canadian Fastball Championships in Yellowknife in 1989.

Darrel loved following the boys in their sporting endeavors and was always asking about the grandkids in the later years — he was so proud to become a great-grandpa to Connor and Ayla.  Darrel & Darlene loved spending their summers at Clearwater Lake. This love was passed down to their family and they continued driving out to the lake on weekends for as long as they could. Darrel & Darlene travelled extensively, visiting such places as Amsterdam, Australia, Fiji, Panama, and Alaska to name a few.

Darrel was predeceased by his parents, Cecil & Ruthe Smith; his brother, Ronald “Red” Smith; his sister-in-law, Kathy Smith; and by his brothers-in-law, Toby Trytten and John McDonald.

Darrel is survived by his wife, Darlene Smith; his son, Rick (Trudee) Smith and their children, Lee (Samantha) Smith (daughter, Ayla) and McLean (Eric) Ince; his son, Brent (Laura) Smith; his son, Drew (Patti) Smith and their children, Bradi (Mitch) Rowley (son, Connor James), Taylor (Dustin Bezugly) Smith, and Brooke (Walker Doetzel) Smith; his sisters, Lynne Clarke (Doug), Lois McDonald, and Marlene Trytten; and by numerous nieces and nephews.

The family extends their sincere appreciation to the Kyle Health Centre who shared the last chapter of Darrel’s life with their care and attention to his needs.

The Celebration of Life for Darrel Smith was held on Thursday, January 12, 2023 at 2:00 pm from Community Hall, Kyle, SK with Pastor Deborah Springer officiating. Brooke Smith served as urn bearer. “How Great Thou Art” was sung by those in attendance, with Ruth Smith serving as pianist. Special music was brought by Connie Day, who sang “Grandpa.” A reading, “Just a Farmer,” was given by Brook Smith. The eulogy was given by Lee Smith. The prerecorded music played was “Angels Among Us” by Alabama and “I’ll Fly Away” by Alan Jackson. The ushers in the hall were Glen Smith and Lyle Smith.

The service was recorded and can be viewed here on YouTube or down below.

A Private Family Interment Service will take place at a later date.

In memory of Darrel Smith, donations made to the Kyle Community Sports Centre would be appreciated by the family. 

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