Obituary of Harold Smithinsky

Harold Emmanuel Smithinsky February 27, 1934 to June 26, 2022 It is with sadness that the family of Harold Smithinsky announce his passing at the age of 88. Harold was born on the homestead at Violet Grove. He married Lillian Huseby, June 18, 1955 and together they had two daughters, Pauline and Joyce. He is survived by his wife Lillian of 67 years, Pauline (Ian Dunn) and Joyce (Dave Mathers), his grandchildren Lindsey (Dustin Bensmiller) and Jordana (Austin Fried) and the great grandchildren Luke and Mallie Bensmiller. Harold was predeceased by his father, Abraham (September 1950), his mother Tillie (September 1971) and his only sibling, George (May 1991). If anyone was born to be a farmer it was Harold. There was nothing he enjoyed more than raising animals, haying, planting crops, harvesting and growing a large garden. He was a John Deere enthusiast; you never saw any colors besides green and yellow on his farm equipment. Over the years he raised horses, pigs, chickens and most notably purebred angus cattle. His herd was known for its calm and gentle nature, reflective of the time and effort he spent with them. Harold worked as a heavy equipment operator until he retired at 60. He didn’t consider farming work and therefore continued to raise cattle until a year ago. As a true Calgary Stampeder and Flames fan in Elks and Oiler Country, he had many friendly rivalries. His interests included playing cards, hunting, fishing, bonfires and socializing with family and friends. The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to STARS in Harold’s name in lieu of flowers. Condolences may be sent to www.affinityfuneralservice.ca Arrangements in care of Dewayne Henley at: Affinity Funeral Service 5001 – 45 Avenue, Drayton Valley, Alberta T7A 1L1 780.542.3338