February 28, 1947 – June 3, 2026
It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Paul John Smith, on Wednesday, June 3, 2026.
Paul was predeceased by his father, John Edward Smith, his mother, Blanch Vermeulen Smith, and his beloved “little brother,” Richard John Smith. Although Richard was younger, Dad’s habit of calling him his “little brother” was always good for a laugh, especially considering Richard was a considerably larger man than Paul. It was exactly the kind of affectionate family joke that Dad loved to keep alive.
Paul was married to the love of his life, Karen Lynn Smith, and together they built a life centered on faith, family, laughter, and love. He was a devoted father to Chris Smith, Geoff Smith, Kelly Smith MacEachen, and Pete Smith. While he was proud of his children, it was his grandchildren who truly captured his heart. He adored every one of them and cherished every moment spent together.
Paul was the kind of grandfather who never took himself too seriously. He happily sat still while his grandchildren colored his hair with chalk, painted his face, decorated his fingernails, and convinced him to join in all kinds of silliness. Nothing brought a bigger smile to his face than hearing their laughter.
A man of many interests, Paul loved running and participated in numerous 5K races as well as several marathons. He enjoyed playing basketball, fishing, hunting, gardening, and spending time in his beloved greenhouse. He especially enjoyed watching the hummingbirds that visited his feeders and could often be found sitting by the living room window working on a Sudoku puzzle while keeping an eye on his tiny, feathered visitors. Paul found joy in the outdoors, in keeping his mind sharp, and in the simple pleasures of everyday life.
Paul also purchased a camper with dreams of weekend fishing adventures. Unfortunately, the black flies had other plans. After attempting two camping trips and being thoroughly outnumbered by the insects both times, he packed up and returned home each night. The camper may not have seen much camping, but the story will provide years of laughter.
Paul was never one to worry much about fashion. In his mind, plaid pajama pants were perfectly acceptable attire for almost any occasion, and he often wore them wherever he went as though they were regular pants. Karen frequently reminded him that jeans existed and encouraged him to put them on before heading out the door, but Dad was rarely convinced. Comfort always won the battle, and his plaid pajama pants became just another part of the legend that was Paul Smith.
But perhaps his greatest pastime was working in his woodpile. Paul took great pride in keeping the house warm through the winter. In fact, his dedication often led to a lighthearted battle with Karen—Paul would spend hours cutting and stacking wood to heat the house, while Karen would open the windows because it was too warm. Dad would quietly follow behind, closing them again. It was a routine that never seemed to end and one that always brought a smile to those who witnessed it.
Paul was a man of deep faith and a dedicated member of his church choir. He loved to sing and often joked that he had “the voice of an angel.” Those who knew him well understood that while his enthusiasm may have exceeded his vocal talent, his joyful spirit more than made up for it.
He treasured time spent visiting with his friends at Babe’s shop, sharing stories, jokes, and solving the world’s problems one conversation at a time. Paul never met a stranger for long and had a gift for making people feel welcome.
Paul will be remembered for his quick wit, his kind heart, his unwavering faith, and the immense love he had for his family and friends. He found joy in simple things, worked hard, laughed often, and lived a life rich with purpose and connection.
Though our hearts are broken by his sudden passing, we take comfort in the countless memories he leaves behind—the laughter, the stories, the songs, the warmth of his home, the beauty of his gardens, the hummingbirds at his feeders, the unfinished Sudoku puzzles, and the love he shared so freely.
He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.
The family would like to thank the staff at the Guysborough Memorial Hospital. Thanks to the EHS, RCMP and the Canso/Hazel Hill Fire Department for responding.
Visitation will be held 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, in Dennis Haverstock Funeral Home, 121 School St., Canso. Funeral service will be held 2 p.m. on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, in Canso at Star of the Sea Parish, With Father Jonathan officiating. No burial.
Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at www.haverstocks.com
“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
