Delbert L. Smith

SMITH, Delbert L January 14, 1935 - April 2, 2010 Del Ol Pal was born in Edmonton, AB moving to North Vancouver in 1961, where he and his Oldest Ol Pal Darlene, wife of 54 years raised their family before moving to California in 1986. In 1989 moving to Point Roberts, WA. Del passed away on April 2nd from a very aggressive bone cancer, surrounded by his Family and the prayerful thoughts of many close friends. He is survived by Darlene, his daughters Debbie (Stewart) Bruce, Edmonton, AB and Dawn Stern, Twassawsen and sons Derek (Stephanie) and Dana (Cindy), Vernon, BC. Ol Pal to grandchildren Brianna and Carly Bruce, Alex and Adam Stern, Lachlan, Rachel, Hayley Smith, Jordon Monroe, Jamie (Nicole) Edison, Colin Smith, and James Morrison. Nieces and nephew in Edmonton, Calgary and Rio de Janiero. Cousins Graham, N. Van, Dale, Sorrento, Dianna, Calgary. Del was a well respected career pilot, flying with the RCAF, PWA and many years in Corporate Aviation companies of BC Hydro, Bannister Pipelines, Canadian Forest Products BC Gas and Woodwards Stores. His logged hours were in the thousands flying to Europe, Caribbean and North America from the north slope of Alaska to Mexico and 43 states in between. His greatest regret in retirement was he could no longer fly over the beautiful mountains of BC. His disappointment however, was a new haven, his workshop where he made some incredible furniture and souvenirs for family. Del had an ability to fix most anything, sometimes accomplished by gentle nagging. Del and Darlene took advantage airline affiliations to travel the Caribbean, cruises and annual trips to Mexico. They also spent over 30 years traveling western Canada and US. Del has left many friends and acquaintances with memories of his quick wit, practical joke and always his laughter. Many younger friends all referred to him as Ol Pal, Dad, Popster, or just plain fun. No funeral by request, a Celebration of Life will be held at his home in Point Roberts WA early in July. Messages of remembrance graciously accepted at smith25@dccnet.com . In lieu of flowers please make a donation to BC Children's Hospital in his name.