WIlliam Stanley Smith

William Stanley Smith, 71, passed Friday, January 15th at Royal Victoria Hospital in Barrie following a brief illness. William Stanley Smith also known as Bill, had an amazing life. He leaves behind his wife of 50 years, Frances (Francee) Smith (Young), his sons Mike (Stephanie) and Steve (Kimberly) and daughter Jaclyn Smith. He will be sadly missed by his eight grandchildren Tristan, Quinn, Trask, Teslyn, Storm, Torrance, Alexus, and Marcus.  William (Bill/Willy) was born on September 8, 1949, in Toronto, Ontario. He was the second of seven children to the late Robert Smith and Jean Darrach (Prentice).  He grew up in Willowdale until the age of 14 and later moved to Aurora. Bill attended King City High School.  He worked several odd jobs in his youth but spent most of his working life as an industrial painter for companies including Harrison & Muir and Conrad Painting from 1972 until he retired on October 1, 2008.  In 1966, Bill met Frances Young.  They were married on March 7, 1970.  March 2020 marked their milestone 50th wedding anniversary.  Bill and Francee moved to Stroud (Innisfil) in 1975 where they raised their 3 children.  They continued to live in the Innisfil community, and were actively involved in helping out and being there for their children and grandchildren who lived close by. Bill was a hardworking man who was a great role model, making tremendous impact on many people's lives.  He was involved in local old-timers hockey as a goalie. His love for carpentry and home repair was put to good use many times as he helped many friends and family with their home renovation projects – using the skills he learned from his father and trade. He had a passion for cooking and entertaining. He loved spending time outdoors sitting pool side or on the deck sharing a beverage and memories with his family and friends.  He also enjoyed spending time with his children and eight grandchildren. He and Francee would regularly host family and friends for celebrations or casual brunches, and Barbecues in the back yard. Later in life he enjoyed travelling whenever the opportunity was available with friends and family.  He made regular winter visits to Florida, and occasional trips to Las Vegas, Mexico and the Caribbean and visiting his sister in Andros. Above all, Bill was incredibly proud of and devoted to his family.  He always spoke of his kids and grandkids and would never hesitate to tell them he loved them. He had a great sense of humour, and loved to share stories, advice or opinions with anyone who was willing to listen, and sometimes even when they were not so willing! Bill passed away peacefully with his family at his side.  The family would like to thank the Simcoe County Paramedics and staff at Royal Victoria Hospital, specifically those staff in the ICU and Cardiac/Renal Units for taking care of him and making his final days as comfortable as possible. Bill, Willy, Dad was a big part of the lives of all he loved.  He was greatly loved and will be deeply missed by all of his family and friends.