Obituary of Dr. Alan Smith

Dr. Alan Gerald Smith passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 10, 2016. He was predeceased by his loving wife and best friend Suna in July of this year; and brother Chris, and parents Dr. Mac and Irene. Left to cherish his memory are his children, Jacqueline, Michael and Thomas (Valerie); his grandchildren, Katarina, Tamara, Brooke, Brandon, Kiana, Catalina and Thomas Jr.; one great grandchild, Charlotte; and brother Neill (Merian). Dr. Alan was born, the eldest son of Dr. Mac and Irene Smith, and raised in Camrose. He studied medicine at The University of Alberta and went on to pursue a career in general surgery. There he met his lifelong companion Suna, who was studying psychiatry at the time. Alan and Suna were married in the summer of 1962 and eventually moved to Camrose to practice medicine alongside his father and uncle (Dr. Hamp Smith) at the Smith Clinic, which was co-founded by his grandfather (Dr. P.F Smith). Dr. Alan practiced general surgery at St. Mary's Hospital, performing a wide variety of surgical procedures spanning several surgical specialties by today's standards. After serving as Chief of Staff at St. Mary's Hospital, Dr. Alan retired from practice in 2000, having provided healthcare to the community of Camrose and area for nearly four decades. Alan was an avid reader, photographer, hunter and sailor who enjoyed family summers at his childhood cottage and the autumn weeks combing the countryside for wildlife. He enjoyed the simpler side of camping and hunting, with the children in tow, looking for the perfect untouched spot to spend their time together. Alan and Suna were world travelers who voyaged from the deepest jungles of Africa to the most beautiful beaches of Tahiti and to Suna's birthplace in Turkey to visit family and friends. For Alan, some of the most enjoyable moments were those spent at Mameo Beach, his refuge and sanctuary, with his family and dogs. Alan and Suna both loved to cook, travelling to France and Italy to attend cooking schools to prepare feasts for their family and friends. Together Alan and Suna supported each other's wishes and dreams and were able to realize them together. Alan and Suna were unwavering advocates for their children and grandchildren, and were instrumental in all of their accomplishments as well. Alan befriended three very special Labrador retrievers over the years - Radar, Trapper, and Laser, who were as close to him as his own children. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend and dedicated surgeon. He will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by those left to live out his legacy. Eternal rest grant unto him, Oh Lord. And may perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. A private family Graveside Service has been held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to the Camrose and District Hospice Society.