Orville Smith

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Orville Smith, age 91, announce his passing on Saturday, October 26, 2019 at the Kyle Health Centre.

Orville was born on October 21, 1928 to Ronald & Ada Smith, at the Tuberose Red Cross Outpost Hospital, which is currently the Kyle Museum Building. He was the youngest of the family, with an older brother – Elmer, and four “doting” older sisters – Leila, Myril, Hazel and Ila. When Orville was 7, his 21 year old brother died from appendix complications. That same fall, when Orville suffered stomach pains, his father (who was on the way to Regina as a Wheat Pool delegate) bundled him up, crossed the river via basket, and had his appendix removed in Regina. (Did they err on the side of caution?)

Orville started school in Kyle. Throughout the years his classrooms changed … Sons of Norway Hall, the old “Greer” building…due to the increase in school population new rooms were required. In the spring of 1943, when he was in Grade 9, he was more than pleased to take on the role of full-time farmer as opposed to student. Because of the war there was a major labor shortage, and his help was needed on the farm. In the late 40’s and early 50’s he attended agriculture school in Saskatoon, and also took a mechanics course in Calgary.

This phase of his education was to serve him well all his life. Orville met Ruth Bullerwell, of Cut Knife, while she was teaching at the North Landing School. After a whirlwind courtship, Orville and Ruth were married on January 20, 1956. They took up residence on the family farm, and he was able to live in the SAME house for 91 years…must be a record! Their family grew with Ron born in October 1956, and Laurie in January 1959. Life was busy on the farm, but there was always time for a quick trip to town to treat the kids, a swim at Clearwater Lake, fishing at the river, and even the occasional trip to Swift!

Orville was a true community man – an active member of the Elks, Legion, and Sask Wheat Pool, a proud supporter of the Co-op and the Credit Union.  He also spent time on the United Church board, fixing, renovating, and canvassing. He was a jack of all trades, carpenter, mechanic, etc.  Orville was always willing to help anyone at any time.

During his final few months he developed health issues which required him to spend some time in the Kyle Health Centre. He was most appreciative of everything that was done for him, many times commenting on how lucky we were to have such a wonderful place in Kyle, and the STAFF in it!

Orville is survived by his wife of 63 years, Ruth; a son, Ronald (Dianne); a daughter, Laurie (Mark) Woodworth. He was blessed with 4 grandchildren, Michelle (Dwayne) Berndt – their children, Linden and Kiley: Crystal (Ryan) Schmiedge – their children Mckayla and Mckenzie: Hayley (Greg) Park – their children, Collyns, Austin and Brett: and Graham (Danielle) Woodworth – their son, Bennett. He was predeceased by his parents; one brother; and by four sisters.

A Memorial Service for Mr. Orville Smith was held on Friday, November 1, 2019 at 2:00 pm from the Kyle Elks and Community Hall in Kyle with Rev. Jim McNaughton officiating.

The Private Family Interment Service for Mr. Orville Smith was held at the White Bear Cemetery

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Orville Smith, please visit our floral store.