Obituary of Colin Smethurst

Colin Smethurst

Colin Smethurst, born on December 1,1932 in the Pennines district of North England, passed away peacefully on the morning of June 24th at the Perth District Hospital. He was the beloved husband of Sherrill Douglas, and the loving stepfather, of Karen Newnham, Lori Newnham (Robert Beauchesne) and Dyan Newnham (John Grant). Colin was the cherished grandfather of Megan Kellerman (Stephen Quinn) Trevor Hopkins and Erin Beauchesne.
Colin led a remarkable life filled with diverse experiences and profound relationships, taking him from the high seas in the British Navy, to working for Rolls Royce and Air Canada. He had a gift for connecting with people, and his warmth extended effortlessly to children and animals of all kinds. The many dogs and their owners who walked by the house on their way to the park will surely notice his absence but none so much as the raccoons who lined up at the door every evening in anticipation of Colin feeding them.
One of Colin's greatest joys was spending time sitting on a bench with Sherrill in Stewart Park, which they lovingly referred to as "their little piece of paradise." Colin will be remembered fondly for his love for his family, and his ability to find joy in simple moments. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.
A gathering and sharing of memories of  Colin's life will be held at the Blair & Son Funeral Home,15 Gore St. West, Perth on Saturday, June 29th from 2:00 - 4:00PM. A tribute will be given at 3:00pm.
If desired, donations may be made to Mel's Farm - Smith's Falls All Animal Sanctuary by emailing melsfarmanimalrescue@gmail.com.  The family would like to extend their gratitude to the caring nurses and doctors of the Perth District Hospital, Palliative Care Unit and the nurses from Bayshore Home Care Solutions.