Obituary of Leo Smits

Smits, Leonardus (Leo). 

Peacefully passed away surrounded by family at Victoria Hospital London, on Thursday February 21st, 2019 in his 91^st year. Born in Someren Netherlands June 5th, 1928. Beloved husband of Joanne (nee VanLankveld) 2009.  Devoted father of Christina Loyens (Gary McCurdy), Ed Adrian Smits, Maryann (Hubert) Berkmortel, Marty (Linda) Smits, Gary (Lois) Smits, Debbie (Greg) Lorch and Tracy (Steve) Voros.  Proud Opa of Angela and Ben Loyens (Kaitlyn Green), Andrea, Michelle (Derek Saker), and Kevin Berkmortel, Jeremy and Jacob Smits, Daniel and Rachel Smits, Naomi Lorch, Alyssa and Kayla Voros  and predeceased by infant grandson Adam Smits.  Great Opa of Wesley John and Cole Leo Saker.  Special friend to Minnie VanKessel.  Predeceased by his parents  Christina (VanDyk) and Gerardus Smits, siblings John, infant sister Maria, Martin, Piet and Gerrit.  Survived by sister Marie, and brothers Wim and Chris. 

Leo immigrated to Canada in 1954 from Holland.  He was devoted to his family and was a passionate tobacco farmer. After farming, dad continued to keep active by playing cards, line dancing, bowling, cutting firewood and gardening. Leo’s family would like to thank the staff on the Palliative Care unit 6th Floor, for their exceptional care and compassion. 

Friends may call at Elliott-Madill Funeral Home , Mount Brydges on Sunday, February 24th, from 1-3pm and 6-8pm.  Funeral mass to be celebrated at All Saints Catholic Parish in Strathroy on Monday, February 25 at 11:00am.  Interment Sacred Heart in the Fields Cemetery Mount Brydges.  Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or Spinal Cord Research would be greatly appreciated as expressions of sympathy.