Obituary for Catherine (Elsie) Smith

Elsie was born in Pincher Creek. She was the youngest of six children of Harry and Catherine Annie Smith. She lived with her family on a ranch near Beauvais Lake (west of Pincher Creek). This ranch was homesteaded by her grandfather in the early 1900s. She and her sister Annie boarded at several places as there were no schools near their home.

She and her friend Jack Smith (son of Elmer and Emma Smith) started their courtship in 1946, which lasted six years until they married at Fort Macleod on Feb. 2, 1952. Their time together spanned an amazing 74 years and they never missed a Christmas together during that time.

Elsie was a kind, loving and generous person whose first love was family. She truly loved children and they loved her as well.

She was an extremely hard worker. For enjoyment she loved to cook — she was a remarkable lady in the kitchen. Elsie was extremely talented with needlework, embroidery, knitting and crocheting. Both she and Jack were very much involved in music, and music remained an immense love and comfort to her, right to the end.

Elsie will be lovingly remembered by the love of her life, husband Jack; son Larry and daughter Sharon; as well as five grandchildren — Jason, Jackie, Theresa, Melissa and Christina — and their families, six great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, extended family and friends, all of whom she adored.

Elsie was predeceased by her parents, her six siblings and her beloved son Mel (1983).

Family would like to thank Dr. Dave Arnold for his kindness and care over the years, and also all the Interior Health care aides who cared for Elsie on a daily basis.

If you knew Elsie, please take a moment to remember her and feel free to share photos and fond memories you may have of this wonderful lady.

No service will be held at this time due to the Covid pandemic.

Forever in Our Hearts — Until We Meet Again