Obituary of Gary James Smith

Diplomat, Storyteller, Life-Enthusiast

Our family lost a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle — truly, a first-class human being. Gary passed away unexpectedly on May 12, 2026, after a weekend of arts, culture, golf, camaraderie and laughter. It was a perfect reflection of a life fully and joyfully lived.

Gary was the beloved father of Tatiana (Graham) and Eric (Stefanie) Chabeaux-Smith, adored grandfather of Maya and Kai, devoted brother of Carol Hoover and the longtime companion of Val Leavitt. He was predeceased by his cherished wife of 48 years, Laurielle Chabeaux, and by his mother, Simone (Desroches) Smith. 

Gary lived a unique and fascinating life as a proud Canadian diplomat, university vice-president, municipal politician, community advocate, author and documentary film producer. He spent his career building bridges - between nations, between people and across generations. 

Born in Toronto and raised in part in Penetanguishene, Ontario, Gary overcame a difficult childhood to earn a spot at York University, graduating with an honours degree in political science in 1968. His lifelong curiosity about the world was sparked early, including during Expo ’67, where he was selected as one of only 48 young adults to work at the Ontario pavilion during the world’s fair — an experience he spoke about with pride and fondness throughout his life.

After graduation, Gary joined the Canadian Foreign Service and moved to Ottawa. “As far as I can recall, I always looked beyond my own backyard,” he once said. His career soon took him to Canada’s mission at the United Nations in New York City and then, in 1971, to the Canadian Embassy in Moscow. Before departing, he and Laurielle endured intensive Russian language training — eight hours a day — a challenge that became one of his favourite stories to tell over the years.

During his posting in Moscow, Gary played an instrumental role in organizing the historic 1972 Summit Series between Canada and the Soviet Union. The experience became one of the defining passions of his life, blending his love of diplomacy, storytelling, hockey and Canada itself.

Over the course of his distinguished diplomatic career, Gary also served in Belgium, Israel, India and Germany before culminating his international service as Canada’s Ambassador to Indonesia. He believed deeply in the role Canada could play in fostering dialogue, cooperation and peace.

Following his retirement from the diplomatic service, and a stint as a Vice-President for York University, Gary entered a vibrant and productive new chapter. Never content to slow down, he entered municipal politics. His thoughts were never far, however, from making his dream come true of telling the story of the 1972 Summit Series. 

In 2022, he published Ice War Diplomat, a behind-the-scenes account of the Summit Series from his unique perspective as a young Canadian diplomat who accompanied the Soviet team in Canada and served as liaison to Team Canada in Moscow. Shortly afterward, the bilingual feature-length documentary IceBreaker: The Legacy of the ’72 Summit Series, featuring Gary and inspired in part by his book, premiered during the 50th anniversary celebrations of the famed series.

Bitten by the filmmaking bug, Gary went on to co-produce Shining Light: A Vietnamese-Canadian Legacy in 2025. The documentary tells the story of a woman and her infant daughter escaping Vietnam during the fall of Saigon in 1975 and rebuilding a life in Canada. The film was screened at several festivals, including the Stratford Film Festival on May 8, 2026 — an event Gary was delighted to attend just days before his passing.

Gary’s accomplishments were remarkable, but those who knew him best will remember something even greater: his zest for life. He was endlessly curious about people, ideas and the world. He loved travel, politics, sports, film, art, music and conversation. He could talk to anyone — and usually did. He relished a good story, possessed a sharp wit and a brilliant mind, and carried himself with warmth, kindness and charisma. There was almost always a twinkle in his eye and often a laugh close behind.

He held a special place in his heart for his family and his treasured Samoyeds. Whether it was mailing cards to mark life’s milestones, sharing photos in the family group chat, or picking up the phone just to connect, Gary made staying close to the people he loved a priority. 

Gary also had many dear friends because he himself was such a good friend. He will be sadly missed by everyone who had the immense good fortune to know and love him. 

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held in Perth, Ontario, on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 11:00 am at St. Paul’s United Church 25 Gore Street West, Perth, followed by a reception at Code’s Mill, 17 Wilson Street East, Perth. In keeping with Gary’s joyful spirit, guests are welcome to wear colour.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gary’s memory may be made to Ovarian Cancer Canada, a cause close to the family’s heart since Laurielle’s passing.

For those wishing to join us for the ceremony via live stream, please use the church's youtube channel link: https://www.youtube.com/@stpaulsunitedchurchperthon4949