Francis Joseph Smith
June 7, 1948 — April 14, 2026
Frank Smith died suddenly early last week at his residence in North Bay, Ontario.
He died peacefully in his own bed, with his son Riley close by, as he had driven up for a visit. The ache we feel in his absence is too terrible to describe, but it is a comfort to know there was dignity in his passing. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary MacInnis, the centre of his world, whom he spent the last several years caring for before she needed to move into permanent care at Cassellholme Long Term Care facility, in North Bay. He is also survived by his son, Riley Smith (Leah Spiering), and his daughter Emma Smith (Tracey MacLean). Frank leaves behind six siblings, Lois Messinger (Steve), Bill Smith (Maria), Yvonne Hibbert (Peter), Simone Quirk (Jerry), Rhea Traversey (Phil), and Raymond Smith (the late Cathy Taylor). He is also survived by three grandchildren, his son Riley’s children Leah, Gabriel and Spencer, as well as his many nieces and nephews. Frank is predeceased by his dear sister Claudia, and his parents Raymond and Leah.
Born in the city but made for the bush, Frank was never happier than when outside enjoying nature. Seeking adventure, he moved north to Canada’s arctic to work on the Distant Early Warning (DEW) Line in the 80’s. This is where he met his soulmate, Mary, when she was working as the only outpost Nurse in the small community of Hall Beach. They lived in Inuvik, NWT, for several years, later moving south to settle in North Bay, ON. Many were brought a little closer to nature when he took them out on the land in the arctic, or fishing in his boat on Lake Nippising and other Northern Ontario lakes. Frank was independent and resourceful, and was known for his ability to jerry-rig and fix just about anything he put his hands on. He was quick-witted and a great conversationalist, loving to talk about everything from mechanics to politics, literature and sports. He was an avid life long Leafs and Blue Jays fan. His favourite thing was to make people laugh, and he was always ready with a joke, a kind word, or some life advice. We miss him dearly already.
Because Frank showed his love by feeding people, donations in his memory can be made to The Gathering Place food reDistribution centre in North Bay, at the email address below. Please be sure to indicate that it is in his honour, and include your address to receive a tax receipt.
Frank got his taxes done on time - so can you!
admin@thegatheringplacenorthbay.ca
A celebration of life will be held in North Bay, at a time still to be determined.
Frank’s cremated remains will be buried at the Holy Cross Cemetery on Airport Hill, where he lived. We will keep you posted on the details.
