Nigel Cyril Arthur Smith-Gander
April 11, 1936 – April 3, 2015
It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Nigel Cyril Arthur Smith-Gander. He was much loved by Bernadette, his wife of 56 years, Son Anthony, Daughter Pamela (Greg) and Grandson Stephen. Nigel was pre-deceased by his parents Gordon and Florence Smith-Gander.
Nigel was born on Easter Saturday in Strome, Alberta and moved with his family to England until the outbreak of World War II. The family moved back to Canada and settled in Burnaby, BC. After graduating from UBC in 1959 with a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Nigel began his career with the BC Telephone Company and then, in 1970, joined BC Hydro. Nigel worked as a tele-control engineer for 25 years for BC Hydro and ended his career there in the position of Manager of Control, Communications and Planning. Nigel was a distinguished member of many professional organizations, including the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists.
Nigel was also an avid aviator and held a private pilot’s license. He was very involved with the Recreational Aircraft Association chapter 85 out of Delta Airpark in Ladner BC. Nigel built his own airplane and later owned a factory built Cessna 150 airplane for many years.
After retiring from work in 1995 he moved to Maple Ridge with Bernie to her family farm. In Maple Ridge Nigel became involved with Community Policing, Citizens on Patrol and the Maple Ridge Board of Variance. Nigel was also a member of Maple Ridge Ham Radio club.
Nigel's interests were wide-ranging and diverse. He was a lifelong motorcycle enthusiast and was truly gifted with the ability to fix almost any device. His generosity, sincerity and honesty won him a vast array of friends, from all walks of life. He was a graceful leader, a truly gifted teacher and an inspiration to more people than he will ever know.
Animals loved and trusted him. Nigel found sanctuary in the cathedrals of Nature, preferring the majesty and beauty of a forest to the confines of the indoors.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held April 18, 2015 at 10:30 AM at St. Patrick’s Parish 22561 121 Street Maple Ridge, BC. Celebration of Life and Reception to follow immediately after in the school gym.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Iron Horse Youth Safe House, c/o the Alouette Home Start Society. Condolences may be sent to www.mapleridgefuneral.ca