1926 – 2008. Surrounded by family at Eastholme, Wednesday, April 30, 2008 in his 82nd year. Beloved husband of Mary (Marietje van den Akker). Loving father of Mary Willemsen (John), Adrian Smits (Christine), Martin Smits (Diane), Jerry Smits (Lise), Brian Smits (Grace), Patrick Smits (Christine), Julie St. Aubin, and David Smits (Lynda). Dear brother of Jo Smits, Diny Vandenakker (Henk) and Harry Smits (Genia). Predeceased by his sisters Toos Vandenberg, Greta Wygergangs, Jet Vandenberg, Paula de Kemp and Mia Beentjes, as well as his brothers, Gerard Smits and Tony Smits. Also survived by his brothers-in-law, Henk de Kemp and Theo Beentjes and his sisters-in-law, Agnita Smits and Martina van den Akker. Cherished Opa of Jessica Willemsen (Bryan), Rebecca Willemsen-Shackleton (Darren), Matthew Willemsen (Tina), Amy Soleski (Keith), Emily and Nolan Smits, Jennifer Lennon (Jason), Linda Smits (Jason), Derik, Vanessa and Melanie Smits, Thalia Smits (Jeremy), Evan Smits, Jacob, Daniel and Paulette Lalonde, Megan St. Aubin, Sara and Steven Smits. Cherished great-Opa of Aidan, Mary-Jane, Riley, Julia and Sarah. Also remembered by many nieces and nephews. A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Ken Runciman and the staff at Eastholme, Powassan for their compassionate care. The family is also grateful to the staff of the Empire Living Centre in North Bay for their excellent care provided to Adrian. The family will receive relatives and friends at THEORET BOURGEOIS FUNERAL HOME, Sturgeon Falls, on Friday, May 2, 2008 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Lady of Sorrow Church, Sturgeon Falls, on Saturday, May 3, 2008 at 11 am. Donations to the Companions of the Cross or the Canadian Cancer Society.
