Obituary of Maria P. Smith

SMITH: Maria Philippina (née van Oordt), beloved mother of Dawna (Dick) Green and Gord Smith (Theresa), passed away peacefully at the Assiniboine Centre on Thursday, September 09, 2010. Maria was born at Vlaardingen, the Netherlands and she came to Canada as a War Bride, marrying James (Jim) Smith of Belmont, MB. They lived for a short time in Salmon Arm, B.C., then Belmont, MB and soon made their home in Douglas, MB for many years. Maria later moved to Brandon and was employed at the Brandon Mental Health Centre for several years. Maria enjoyed riding her bicycle and looked forward to the dances at the Royal Canadian Legion where she was a devoted member. She took great pride in her appearance and was always dressed in the latest European fashions. Her quick wit and feisty spirit will be missed by all. She was predeceased by her husband Jim and by her two brothers and one sister in the Netherlands and South Africa. Maria will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Dawna (Dick) Green, son Gord Smith (Theresa), granddaughter Lisa (Dean) Hammond, grandson Dustin Smith (Michelle), great-grandchildren Ben, Matthew, Gavin and Chloe. Maria will also be greatly missed by Don Gardiner and by her extended family in the Netherlands. In keeping with Maria's wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family gathering will be held. Donations in memory of Maria may be made to the Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation, "Palliative Care," 150 McTavish Ave. East, Brandon, MB, R7A 2B3. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to Dr. Smith and the staff at the Assiniboine Centre for their compassionate care. Eindelijk Thuis