Obituary of Frederick Rodger Smith

Smith, Frederick Rodger – After a long fought battle with many health issues Fred passed away peacefully at Hospice Niagara with his family by his side on September 19, 2018 at the age of 85 years.

He is survived by his loving wife Marilyn (Rittenhouse) of 63 years and sons Brian (Wendy McFadden), Kevin (Lisa Marlow) and Darin (Heidi Kimber). He was a proud papa to 9 grandchildren, Rachael Smith, Sarah Smith, Taran (Paul) Iacocca, Amy Smith, Connor Smith, Tamara (Kasin) Mailoux, Tanner Smith, Shayna Smith, Charlie Smith and 2 great grandchildren, Scarlett Smith and Leo Mailloux. Brother to Bill (Cathy) Smith. Predeceased by sister Louise (Gord) Maycock and brother Harold (Ruth) Smith. Loved by many nieces and nephews.

Fred was born and raised in Vineland Station where Marilyn and Fred raised their 3 boys and farmed. Fred farmed all his life before health issues triggered his retirement at 55 years of age. He continued to live in home in Vineland until the last 6 years of his life when he and Marilyn started a new adventure moving to a condo in St. Catharines.

In his younger years Fred was an avid outdoorsman enjoying hunting and fishing. As an active sportsman he also played softball in Jordan and hockey for the Peach Kings in Grimsby, and Marsdale and Port Dalhousie Lakeside in St, Catharines. In his retirement years he spent long summers golfing and was a member at Sawmill golf club. Through all his years, especially once he could no longer participate himself, he enjoyed watching his sons play their sports and then also his grandchildren.

He was a past member of Jordan Lions Club and a member of the Beamsville Ivy Lodge, No. 115. As a retired farmer Fred continued to enjoy time spent tending his tomato plants in the city.

Cremation has taken place.

A Celebration of Life will take place at Tallman’s Fireside Room, 3277 King St., Vineland on Sunday September 23, 2018 form 2-5pm. Fred’s family would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. David Habing and the nurses on 3B Dialysis of St. Catharines Hospital. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial donations Hospice Niagara in St. Catharines or Kidney Foundation.