Mel Smith
April 28, 1958 – April 29, 2009
Mel was born in Vitenhage, South Africa and died on Quadra Island suddenly but peacefully with his son by his side.
Mel was predeceased by his brother Steven, mother Myra and father William. He is survived by his son Emerson, sister Elizabeth and brother Bernard. As a young man Mel earned several medals for gymnastics and moto-cross racing. He later served in the South African Defense Corps. After receiving a production management diploma he immigrated to Canada, fell in love with Campbell River and stayed. Mel enjoyed many things in life, particularly the outdoors and camping at Little Bear Bay or Buttle Lake with his light of his life, Emerson. Mel’s path in life had it’s highs and lows but we are proud to say he was overcoming the rough spots and was happily looking forward to the future. Although we are profoundly saddened by Mel’s passing we take some comfort in knowing he did so while doing what gave him the greatest joy, being with Emerson. People who really knew Mel recognized his true heart and goodness within it. We ask that you hold on to a warm memory, as we will cherish ours.