Vaughan (Smitty) Smith, born in Vancouver, BC on January 26th, 1971. Passed away on the evening of March 20th, 2025 in Edmonton, AB aged 54 years old.
Vaughan grew up in Thunderbay, Ontario and often spoke of this place as home. He grew up with many cousins that were so close they were additional siblings. Vaughan could be a fighter, but he never shy’d away from protecting his family. Vaughan traveled back to Thunderbay around 15 years ago to reconnect with family and have the nostalgia of being home.
During his life Vaughan worked as a cook in many different places. He made very good food and was well liked by customers. Vaughan’s favourite opportunity while being a cook was at the New West Hotel and Restaurant in Edmonton, AB. Vaughan and his family also often dined there during the weekends. Vaughan also worked for Finning Canada for just under 20 years before leaving the company as a Yardman. This job was his pride and joy. He enjoyed the hard work and often would work long hours. But always to support his family. He often worked doubles around the holidays and back to school season so he could spoil his daughter’s.
Vaughan was an avid hockey fan cheering on his home team the Vancouver Canucks, however he was an even bigger wrestling fan. Weekly Vaughan would tune into Monday Night Raw and Friday Night Smackdown. His eldest and occasionally his youngest would often watch with him. He and his eldest daughter Brittney went to a live event when they came to Edmonton and had an incredible experience there together.
Unfortunately, for the last 12 years of his life Vaughan went through a time of darkness. Vaughan struggled with addiction and sobriety. He was also homeless and could not find sobriety during his life, ultimately passing from his lifestyle choices.
Vaughan is survived by his two daughters Brittney Smith of Fort Saskatchewan, AB and Kayla Smith of Calmar, AB, and his sister Corrina Conlan (nee Smith) of Vancouver, BC. Along with many cousins, aunts, uncles, friends, colleagues and anyone who may have been missed. Vaughan was predeceased by his brothers Walter Smith and Vern (Skip) Smith, his father Vern (Skipper) Smith and mother Karen Smith (nee Patola).
Cremation has already taken place and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.
You ladies did a beautiful job on his write up! He will forever be missed! I remember when he visited 15 years ago, and we all got together. It was an unforgettable memory, he definitely had a sense of humour that could shake any sadness going on, and I will always hold it deep in my heart ❤️ my deepest condolences to you girls, and the family 🙏
Very sorry for your loss but Karen was a Patola …. see you on the flipside brother cousin!! Love you girls!