Obituary
John Smithers, cherished Father, grandfather, and great grandfather ended his earthly journey on Sunday, August 28, 2022.
Born in Dublin, Ireland, John was the eldest of three children born to Elizabeth and John Smithers. A dye maker by trade in the printing and packaging industry, John served many years at Smurfit Printing & Packaging (formerly Alex Thom) where he met his true love and wife Bernadette.
Following their marriage on July 16, 1957, John and Bernadette emigrated to Toronto Canada, returning to Ireland after two years to grow and raise their family until their return to Calgary, Canada with their six children in August 1977. Soon after, John joined Calgary Transit as a bus driver until his retirement in 1993. Like his father before him, John was a trade unionist. A strong advocate for social justice, he was passionate about protecting the rights of workers.
John’s deep, abiding love for his beloved wife Bernadette left an imprint on the hearts of his children. He was a devoted father who raised his family with kindness and compassion. His wonderful sense of humour, and sharp wit will be remembered with great fondness. Described as a warm, welcoming, fun-loving gentleman perfectly encapsulates the man.
John was a proud Irishman who never lost his Dublin accent. As one of the founding members of the Irish Cultural Society (ICS) he established the ICS Care Committee, supported the ICS Choir, and organized many social functions, ballroom dance lessons, and dance socials. John was recognized as a tireless volunteer for his contributions to the ICS.
Along with his wife Bernadette, he began what would become the annual “St. Patrick’s Day at St. Mary’s Cathedral” Ecumenical Mass for Peace. A devout catholic, John was a member of and served the parish of St. Mary’s Cathedral for over 40 years, joining the parish council and the Eucharistic ministry.
Pre-deceased by his beloved wife Bernadette; his dear daughter Louise; and sister Marie; John passed quietly surrounded by his family. Left to cherish his memory are his children, Bernadette (Greg), Ann, Colette, John (Karen), and Eamon (Emma). Greatly loved by his grandchildren, Seān, Steven, Evan, Brian, Katy, Julia, Lindsay, Christine, Ciara, Conor, David, Cian, Julian, Lauren, Grace, and Catelyn; and his beloved great-grandchildren, John (Grandpa) will live on in their memories. John will be deeply missed by his sister Clare (Peter); and fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews in Canada, Ireland, and the UK.
The family extends our eternal gratitude to the wonderful care team on the fourth floor of Chartwell Eau Claire Seniors Residence. Our thanks especially go to Nina, Kabita, Leda, and Joyce, who treated John like family. Our deepest gratitude goes to our Irish angel Gemma Ryan.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend prayers and tributes at Evan Strong Funeral Services (5502 2 St. SW) at 6:00 pm on Thursday, September 1, 2022. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary’s Cathedral (219 18 Ave SW) at 10:30 am on Friday, September 2, 2022. Reception to follow in the Church Hall. Livestream will be available for those unable to attend in person.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made in lieu of flowers to Inn From the Cold.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of John Smithers May 17 1931 August 28 2022 (age 91)..
Death notice for the town of: Calgary, Province: Alberta
My sincere condolences to all of you on the loss of your Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather and my Uncle. John will be missed by so many for his quick wit and dry sense of humour and driving a City bus was the perfect job for him as he enjoyed nothing more than meeting new people, and of course talking to them!! John certainly was a gentleman kind and caring and always ready to help wherever he could, together with your Mam they helped me when I needed it I only had to call and I will always be grateful for that.
He lived his life to the full and we have to be happy about that and he is now with his beloved Bernie again.
You are all in my thoughts – Olivia