Just a month shy of his 70th birthday, it is with deep immense sadness that we announce the passing of Lee Smith, during his final hours in VNA Hospice House, Vero Beach, Florida, mid Sunday morning on January 25th, 2026.

Born at the Great War Memorial Hospital in Perth Ontario on February 26th, 1956 to Frank and Dorothy (Sinkiewicz) Smith. Predeceased by his parents and oldest brother Gerald Ferguson. Lee leaves behind his wife Mary Klice, son Colby Smith (Lorne) and his daughter Taylor Musumeci (Ricky). Poppy to his grandchildren Avery and Ronin Musumeci, (twins) Ava and Emma Smith. Survived by siblings Jeanne (late Dale) Marie (David), Cheryl (Kyle), Dianne (Jim), Carol (Darren) , Rick (and his family), sister-in-laws Sherrill, Jean, and Suzy. He will be missed by many special and dear nieces and nephews and many cousins, along with Mary’s parents Brian and Stephanie Klice, her siblings Brian Jr., Kristine Rathbun (Rick), Oliver (Casey). Lee’s children’s mother and his long time best friend Tim Steele.

Lee loved the Florida sunshine, he lived there many years after leaving Richmond, Ontario. He established and operated his own small construction business in the sunshine state. Eventually he retired. Lee and Mary moved to New York State, being closer to her family. Lee suffered a stroke during Covid, making his days challenging. He missed the warmer weather and given his onerous health eventually required assisted living, made a joint decision to move closer to his children in Florida September 2025, while Mary continued her career back home in New York State, also maintaining ongoing treatment for her own health. Before Lee’s stroke Mary and Lee spent their recreational time on the golf course, they were a team. Lee’s rough exterior and attitude was to work hard and play hard, saying “ we all are eventually going to die anyway”. He lived life this way. Lee will be forever missed by many family members and friends, memories and stories remain within our hearts…..and there are many.

Celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Donations, any Hospice of your choice.

The loss is immeasurable, but so is the love left behind.