With immense sadness and also deep gratitude for her beautiful, active life, we share the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, mother-in-law, aunt: Suzanne Campbell Smith at age 87. She was born in Saint John, NB and lived a rich, adventurous life filled with laughter, love and so many accomplishments in Fredericton, London England, Montreal, Burlington, London (Ontario), and finally Goderich. She shared her life with John Bate and their two children Sarah and Michael. And then in later life she found joy with David Smith here in Goderich.
She reinvented herself mid-life as a successful travel agent arranging group tours all around the world, appreciated for her extra special touches. She finally retired at age 80 and enjoyed her St. George’s church community, her friends, gardens, going to the theatre, playing golf, passionately watching golf/tennis/curling, and of course spending time with her family.
She is now a shining light with her beloved granddaughter Nicole who left us in 2022. And she will be deeply missed by her loving children Sarah and Michael, her dear son and daughter in-laws (Claude, Jen and also Adriene) and her cherished grandson Alexander. She is predeceased by her parents Hedley and Audrey Wilson, her sisters Nancy and Virginia (Jeano) and her brother James (Jim). And by her second husband David.
On Saturday February 10th at St. George’s Anglican Church in Goderich, there will be a visitation (11:00-1:00) then a service (1:00) followed by an afternoon tea reception in the Church Hall.
In lieu of flowers as expressions of sympathy for Suzanne, we invite you to make a donation to any of the following:
• Alexandra Marine Hospital Goderich (for the incredibly talented and compassionate care Suzanne received since November.
• St. George’s Anglican Church (she was active here for over two decades)
• Canadian Cancer Society (to help find cures for this terrible disease)
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Gwen Doak
I worked with Suzanne at Ellison Travel in Goderich. She always had a smile on her face. My deepest sympathy to her family.
Carol Setterington
Suzanne has been a dear friend for the past 50 years, give or take. We met while curling at the Highland Club in London back when Ladies’ curling meant the young mothers, who played on weekdays. Suzanne threw the Lead Stones and did it very well for our team when we captured the Ladies’ Imperial Trophy at the Sarnia Ladies’ 3-day Bonspiel, defeating the defending champions. Many years passed until we found ourselves gathering again with old friends on the first Thursday of every month to have Dinner in London, and, we were known as The Dining Divas! We began as a group of 20 gals but the passing years whittled us down through attrition to a handful.
Suzanne was a “going concern”,, as our Grandmas used to say. She played Bridge, sports, travelled the world, and never complained. Until her recent illness I never heard Suzanne complain about her health. Losing her now leaves a hole in my heart. Our birthdays are just under 3 weeks apart, but I always told Suzanne, “No way are you as old as I am”.
My sincere condolences to Sarah, Michael and Alexander. You had the BEST of Moms and I am so sorry for your grievous loss. I chatted with Suzanne on the Friday before her passing. We promised to chat again on the following Tuesday morning, but alas, it was not to be.
Tracey McCormick
I’m sorry to hear of Suzanne’s passing. Although we didn’t work very closely together at Ellison, her passion for this job was very inspiring and she had great knowledge to share. I’m sure she is travelling well on the Other Side.
Karen Leslie
I am keeping all of you in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. I was fortunate to have Suzanne as a co-worker and friend for many years. Visits to her home were always so warm and welcoming and her gardens always beautiful. We’d sit and drink tea and talk about all sorts of things. Sometimes when we talked on the phone she would be watching golf or curling and she’d tell me about who was doing what and we’d laugh because I know nothing of either sport. I was glad to have had a great visit with Suzanne a few weeks ago and will always hold her close. She was a special lady who will be missed by those who loved her.
Sandie Vanderschot
Suzanne was adventurous for sure and travel was a highlight. I always enjoyed working with her at ET and hearing the stories about her tours. Thinking of you all during this time.
SandieV
Heather Moffatt
I will so miss Suzanne, we worked together planning group tours for close to 35 years, first in London & then in Exeter. When making decisions for tours, she always thought of the client first and would stop at nothing to make sure her passengers were well cared for. We were more than co-workers we were friends. I loved her joie de vie!
Once Covid hit I chose Suzanne to be the one person I would call each month and we just grew closer…
You have your wings now Suzanne, see you in Heaven for tea, love you!
Rudolph & Patricia Hyles
We are so saddened to hear of Suzanne’s passing. After several group trips with her as our leader she became a dear friend. Our sympathy goes out to Sarah & Michael and to her extended family. May she rest in peace.
Rudy & Pat