Longtime Standardbred owner Christopher "Chris" Irvin Smith, 67, of Moncton, N.B. passed away at Saint John Regional Hospital on Thursday, Aug. 11.
Born in Washington, DC, USA, he was the son of the late R.C. "George" Smith and the late C. Frances Smith.
As an infant, Chris and his parents moved from Washington to England and after a brief time, settled in Moncton. From an early age, Chris was keen to start working – so much so that he lied about his age to join the Militia a year early, and it was there that he met Linda, his future wife. Following high school, he started working with CN, first as a brakeman then as an engineer, for over 35 years. He was active in the union throughout his career, including serving as local chairperson.
Chris loved harness racing and was a partner in One Black Horse Stable that owned several successful horses, including Buddywhatshisname and Final Balance. He especially enjoyed spending time at their cottage on P.E.I., not far from the Charlottetown racetrack. He enjoyed reading about history, politics and genealogy, and was always interested in discussing those subjects. His dry sense of humour and quick wit will be missed.
He will be sadly missed by his wife of 47 years, Linda (née MacEachern); siblings, Evan (Judy), Moncton; Craig (Florence), Stellerton, N.S.; Marsha Greenan (Blair), Halifax; and Richard (Elizabeth), Moncton; sister-in-law Nancy Courteau (Pierre), brothers-in-law Allan, Ian and Carl; as well as several nieces, nephews and extended family members.
A time to gather and share memories of Chris will take place at Fergusons Funeral Home, 1657 Mountain Road, Moncton, N.B. on Sunday, Aug. 21 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
In memory of Chris, memorial contributions to the charity of your choice would be appreciated. Online condolences for the family may be shared on the Fergusons Funeral Home Facebook Page or at fergusonsfuneralhome.com.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Chris Smith.