On Monday August 4, our family said goodbye to someone who brought so much happiness into our lives. Lawrence George Smith of Neepawa, formerly Foxwarren, MB, passed away peacefully at the proud age of 91, after facing his journey with courage and peace. Lawrence will be remembered for his love of music and fellowship.
Lawrence will be forever in the heart of his wife of 49 years, Georgeen (Crew). Lawrence was a cherished father and grandfather and will be deeply missed by Kyle (Sherry) and grandson Torrin, Myrna (Jamie) and grandchildren Lara and Callan, Roxanna (Tyler) and grandchildren Adriana and Cole. Lawrence leaves behind his close family: sister in law Angela, nieces and nephews Ken (Holly), Keith, Marie (Bruce), Barb (Mark) and their children and grandchildren whom he enjoyed so much. Lawrence was predeceased by his mother Margaret and father Cecil and his life-long best friend and sister Gail (Gordon), his brother Rod, sister-in-law Doreen (John) and brother-in-law Frank. Lawrence was a dear friend to many in his church, community and family, each of which, although not listed, will be forever loved.
Lawrence was born in the Bayfield district near Foxwarren, MB, in the summer of 1934. Over his years in Foxwarren he was a member of the United Church and later the Binscarth Christian Assembly. His longest association was with the Independent Order of Oddfellows. Lawrence lived on the home quarter with his parents for many years before marrying Georgeen Crew of Birtle, MB, on a beautiful fall day in 1975.
Lawrence was often heard telling stories of first driving a tractor pulling a binder at 8 years old, and driving a team of work horses pitching sheaves for many a year. Farming advanced by degrees over his many years but he still fondly recollects the sentiments he had for those work horses that he respected so deeply. Lawrence held many a friend in captive conversation for hours reminiscing about growing up in the Great Depression and the war years and later the better years of farming with tractors and advancements. These stories will remain in many hearts forever.
In 2004, Lawrence and Georgeen made the move to Neepawa, MB, to retire near family. It had been a life-long dream of his to retire to the beautiful community along Highway 16, and they enjoyed many years in their little home with the big back yard garden. Lawrence thrived in retirement and was active in the Neepawa Community Choir, The Hims, Slo-Pitch, Neepawa Bowling League, Titans Hockey Anthem volunteer, and many more activities over his 21 years in town. Lawrence and Georgeen joined the Baptist Church in Neepawa where Lawrence served on the Deaconate and enjoyed many years leading the church in song on the worship committee. Lawrence loved his music and he loved everyone who loved music.
Georgeen made the move to Country Meadows in 2018 and not long after Dad decided to move next door to her at AspenLea where his heart was full with the companionship he found at both places. He was either with the coffee crew at Country Meadows or the potluck crew at the apartment.
We will remember Lawrence's easy smile, his happy nature, and his deep appreciation of friendship. It was Lawrence's wish to be surrounded by singing, and his spirit was comforted by the soprano voice of his dear friend near his final hours. He touched the lives of so many, and his memory will be forever an inspiration to seek true happiness.
A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, August 11, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at the Neepawa First Baptist Church in Neepawa, Manitoba.
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