1939 – 2026
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert Leonard Smith on June 8, 2026. Bob passed away peacefully after a courageous three-month battle with various health challenges at St. Mary’s Hospital.
Bob will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Shirley; his devoted children, Kathy (Ed), Debbie, and Stephen; his siblings, Marion (Al), Don (Hyun-Mi), and Merrill (Gina); and his sister-in-law, Jill (Cameron). He also leaves behind his dear friends, Don McEwen, Ron Patterson, Marsha Gouett, the Four Men For Lunch club and his cherished fellow parishioners at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church.
Born at home on George V Avenue in Lachine to Robert Smith and Eileen Leonard, Bob’s lifelong devotion to St. Stephen’s Church began at just eight years old alongside his maternal grandparents. He remained a pillar of the church community throughout his life, a dedication honored in 2011 when he received the Bishop’s Award from the Diocese of Montreal.
Bob met the love of his life and future Reverend, Shirley Elmslie, in the 10th grade. Married in 1962, they were just days away from celebrating their 64th wedding anniversary. A true family man, Bob shared his passion for the outdoors with his wife and children, encouraging countless adventures in cycling, swimming, and cross-country skiing. His legacy is filled with memories of family camping trips, days at the cottage, and annual bike rides to Lake MacDonald with his son and friends. He cherished his many cousins, nieces and nephews and he enjoyed large family gatherings with both the Smith and McAskill clans. He fondly remembered his many travels to Bermuda with Shirley to visit lifelong friends Terry and Barbara Huntington.
Bob’s impactful teaching career began in 1961. Adored by students and colleagues alike, he brought vibrant energy to his schools by organizing ski trips, coaching basketball, and hosting early-morning air hockey games in his classroom.
Our family is profoundly grateful for the exceptional care Bob received at St. Mary’s Hospital. Bob himself was appreciative of the good care he received. He engaged pleasantly with the staff, maintained good spirits, and even commented that he felt “pampered.” In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’ s memory may be made to the St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation (3830 Lacombe Ave., Suite 1510, Montreal, Qc, H3T 1M5) or St. Stephen’s Anglican Church (25 12th Ave., Lachine, Qc, H8S 1B2).
Visitation will be held on July 4th, 2026 from 10 am to 12 pm at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church 25 12th Ave., Lachine, Qc, H8S 1B2. A service will follow at 12 pm, after which there will be a reception.
RÉSIDENCE FUNÉRAIRE J.J. CARDINAL FUNERAL HOME
2125, rue Notre-Dame, Lachine (Québec) H8S 2G5
Tél. : 514-639-1511 | Téléc. : 514-639-1516 | Courriel : service@jjcardinal.ca
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