Obituary of Raymond Smith

Raymond (Ray) Smith was born on October 25, 1938 in Edmonton, Alberta to Otto and Ida Smith. The Smith family farm was located near Nisku, Alberta and Ray grew up plowing, sowing and harvesting, and developed a deep love of the cycle of farming and the land. It was here he also learned to love and trust the Lord - an inheritance passed down from his parents which he faithfully passed on to his own children. In 1956 he began his career in finance, working at the Royal Bank in Edmonton. In 1960 he was transferred to the Camrose branch where he met Bonnie Hoefling -the woman who set her cap for him and five years later would become his wife. Ray graduated from the University of Alberta in 1970 with a Bachelor of Commerce. He articled for two years with Clarkson, Gordon Company and received his Chartered Accountant designation in 1972. He remained in finance for the rest of his career working for the Alberta Research Council, Augustana University College, the Bethany Group and Concordia University College. He retired in 2006 and after a brief hiatus, accepted a part-time position at Concordia Lutheran Seminary as the Finance Manager. He was pleased to serve his Lord and the church both in his positions at post-secondary institutions and also through service on many boards and committees in his congregation. In his retirement he also recaptured his love of photography as well as spending time traveling with Bonnie both to distant places and to visit their two children; Angela (Matthew) and Les (Gaylene) and his grandsons, Hudson and Greyden. Ray passed away peacefully on September 9, 2011 at the age of 72 in the company of his family. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, September 14, 2011 at 1:30 p.m. from St. Peter's Lutheran Church (5012 51 Ave, Leduc) with Rev. Neil Stern officiating. Inurnment took place in the St. Peter's Lutheran Cemetery. If friends so desire memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to Concordia Lutheran Seminary in Edmonton or the charity of one's choice.